Chrysalis

Inside this pupal case hanging from a little twig is a peacock butterfly that could hatch at any time.

Metamorphosis in butterflies and moths is an extraordinary phenomenon. The body and cells of the old caterpillar are completely reorganised to form the adult insect as the chrysalis hangs, apparently inert from its point of attachment. How wonderful is that? How can anything so short-lived be so complex? After all these years since studying zoology and botany at school and university, I am still fascinated and amazed by the everyday events of the natural world.

This is a bit of a cheat, as one of my colleagues found this and several other chrysalises and brought them into the office. This is one of two that are still left to hatch. We released one today in a bright spell, hope it survived the deluge that followed.

Thank you to everyone who viewed, commented and gave stars and hearts to yesterday's jewelled web. I'm sorry I am way behind with comments and thanking you all individually.