Berger, That is so exciting that you found the White Admiral Cats. You will want to keep the willow that you bring in in an air-tight container. Large enough to contain air for the caterpillars. I use a large plastic container that is about 14 inches tall and 10 inches across. It fits nicely over the willow which I put in a small vase and cover the top with a small piece of foil so the caterpillars can't get down in the water. Willow dries out quickly. I've never raised the White Admirals, as we don't have them here, but I've raised Red Spotted Purples and lots of Viceroys. I have pictures of what the hibernaculum looks like in my gallery on Pbase. I'll include the link for you. Sandy

You mean spinach produces these? What is it? I never saw them on my plants until I moved them outside, which is what makes me think they are from an insect...

Sorry to hear about the snake! I have noticed on the purple martin forum they use nets around their poles too. That might help. Snakes usually remember so maybe hope that a hawk or something will eat this particular snake. Wish i could give you some better advice but i have none. Sorry. Can this nestbox be relocated? Best of luck. Bonnie

Thanks for your reply, Kendra. I've been around this forum for 10 or so years and have had only one attempt in a nestbox on my property in all those years. Then all of the sudden this pair shows up much to my delight and produced 9 infertile eggs in two clutches. And that seems very strange that you have experienced this problem this year yourself. I was just informed by my husband that the blues are attempting a third nesting; they are currently building another nest. Fingers crossed.... I will candle these eggs much sooner this time.