The bright Cinnabar moth gets its name from the colour of the red mineral cinnabar which is a mercury ore that was once widely used as an artist’s pigment.   Frequently in summer dozens of black and orange cinnabar caterpillars can be found feasting on ragwort but it is still too early to find them although soon the emerging dark grey and red cinnabar moths will be laying eggs for the next generation.  Ragwort is toxic and both the caterpillars and moths retain the toxins with their bright colours providing an effective defence against many predators.

Thanks to H0tamer, who is hosting Tiny Tuesday.