Mullein Moth caterpillar (Cucullia verbasci)

We used to have Mullein plants growing near the cow yards but they have disappeared for now so I was quite surprised to find three of these caterpillars on a Figwort in the damp gateway of the oilseed rape field.  The actual moth is quite dowdy in comparison, the wings being a mixture of browns looking like a piece of tree bark or a twig.  The Mullein moth is found in most of Europe except for the northern and eastern parts of the area, and in North Africa.  It likes dry and warm places. It feeds on mullein, buddleia and figwort.  One description I read of the caterpillar which amused me is:  if it is ever threatened, it will freeze and then vomit!

The extra photograph is of a Yellow Shell Moth which settled on my leg.  This is the Camptogramma bilinear moth which feeds on cleavers, chickweed, dandelions and docks.