Phobocampe confusa

This is a species of ichneumon which lays its eggs in the caterpillars of the Peacock butterfly. The fully grown larvae erupt from the caterpillars and spin a cocoon in which they pupate. The cocoons can be seen suspended from silk threads attached to the remains of the caterpillars and are more often recorded than the adult.

Areas of Nettles where Peacock Butterfly caterpillars are found.

The larval cocoons can be seen in late June and July.

See ‘Description’

UK status not known.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.