Episode 2.60 - Pine Pillars and Peacock Pauses

Episode 2.60 - Pine Pillars and Peacock Pauses

February 21, 2026 · 51 min

About this episode

Chris Skinner and Matthew Gudgin explore the historic carriage store at High Ash Farm, discussing hibernating peacock butterflies and their life cycle.

Send us Fan Mail In the crisp northerly chill of late February at High Ash Farm, Chris Skinner and Matthew Gudgin explore the historic carriage store turned log haven, where a meticulously stacked pile shelters hibernating peacock butterflies—jet-black camouflaged wings mimicking shrivelled leaves, their glycerol-laced blood warding off frost amid tales of metamorphosis from egg to voracious nettle-feeding caterpillars, red pupae, and nine-month lifespans, alongside brimstone and small tortoi...

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Host: Chris Skinner

Guest: Matthew Gudgin

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Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Pine Pillars and Peacock Pauses

Places: High Ash Farm

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