Fox Moth larva - Beeley Moor

Both the Fox Moth and its close relation the Northern Eggar have larva which over winter before pupating in the Spring. The larva of both species may be encountered on sunnier days in March and April when they get some benefit from the sunshine prior to pupation, but do not feed at this time of year.
This Fox Moth larva was following a track along Beeley Moor yesterday morning.

Fox Moth - larva

Fox Moth caterpillar

Came across several Fox Moth caterpillars on sphagnum moss this morning, not entirely sure what they were doing, they over-winter as a caterpillar so perhaps need the moisture they looked fully grown.

Fox Moth

Five from the Moor

Finally managed to trap on Beeley Moor, with the wind speed down to a manageable level, and added Fox Moth 2 females, Glaucous Shears 2, Broom Moth, True Lover's Knot and Small Elephant Hawk-moth plus;
Narrow-winged Pug, Brown Silver-line3, Brimstone 2, Small Phoenix, Lime Hawk-moth, Iron Prominent, Pale Prominent, Map-winged Swift, Flame Shoulder 40+, Beautiful Golden Y 4, Clouded-bordered Brindle 10.

Fox Moth - female