The Very.......

.............Hungry Caterpillar
 
This is a close view of the caterpillar of the Red or Yellow Admiral Butterfly.
Like the stinging nettles they need to survive, they are covered in spikes themselves.
 
I have these stems in a vase inside so I can watch the cycle develop and change on a daily basis. Hopefully the plants I have put in the garden will mature enough to support the butterfly later in the season. Meantime, a friend will keep me supplied with fresh leaves.
 
I appreciate the comments, stars and hearts for the chrysalis of this native butterfly that was my blip yesterday. Thank you everyone.