Here’s a lovely piece in praise of caterpillars from Patrick Barkham in the Guardian – with a nod to Nineveh, noting the “welcome appearance for that rare species, the humane pest controller”.

I’d forgotten what fabulous pets they are: busy, and oddly personable. The forest school class loved having caterpillars trotting up their arms, and solicitously ensured they were returned to their nettles. At home, we pick fresh nettles every day for our four small tortoiseshells. It’s splendid to watch them dive into the fresh leaves with all the ardour of a hungry dog at its bowl.