Spit?

[boognish76]

What is that strange spit-type stuff you see in bushes and hedgerows, etc.? My sister says it's magpie spit but can't cite her sources! Anyone?

[moonacre]

No not Magpie spit :-) There are a small number of insects which use "spit" to protect themselves from predators when vulnerable (eg eggs or larvae). Were you to look inside one of these you'd almost certainly find a small grub or catapillar.

[Obo]

When I was little we used to call it Cuckoo spit, but I have since learnt that moonacre is correct, I'd be interested if anyone knows what the stuff is called

[Cetti]

'Cuckoo spit' as its commonly called is made by a little insect called a Froghopper. It has a flat 'tail' a bit like a paddle and beats this juice until it is encased in froth .