We offer larvae of several common native butterflies that can be reared and released to supplement and augment local populations.
Perrenial favourites include our own native Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae) and Peacock (Inachis io) butterflies. Both these species can be reared easily on pots of well watered, growing nettle. If potted nettle runs out they will then transfer willingly to sprays of nettle stood in water.
Milk bottles provide ideal receptacles for cut nettle which can then be placed inside a suitable cage. Remember to plug the neck of the bottle with cotton wool, change the nettle daily (even if it is only partially eaten) and clean the larval droppings from the bottom of the cage.
