| First of all, the repeat posts and the shouting (all caps) is uncalled for. This is an insect message board, not a 911 emergency! OK, your pictures are just a little blurry, but I think you have some kind of cutworm. If so, it's just a commom garden pest that will turn into a brown moth. Of course, there's no reason you can't keep it to see it go through its metamorphosis. Just put some loose, slightly moist garden soil about 2" deep in a container with a venitlated top. Add whatever plant material your caterpillar is eating and that's it. When he's ready to pupate, he will burrow into the soil, so if a few days go by and you don't see him, dig around carefully in the soil, and you may find a little red-brown pupa. Once he pupates, (and I really don't know if it's a he or a she, but I like to say "he"), it would be a good idea to place him, container and all, in a cool, sheltered spot, like your garage, or porch. Remember: in nature, this little guy would be pupating and perhaps spending the winter underground, and if you keep it indoors, he might turn into a moth too early. Hope this helps! |
