Five battery operated traps were set at various points on the Woodland Trust’s Ledmore and Migdale Woods property and although the weather looked somewhat threatening 12 folk turned up for the event.

Over recent weeks the numbers of moths recorded has been fairly low so there were no high expectations of a bumper catch. Although only 15 species were caught there was sufficient variety in the slightly different habitats to prove interesting and not too overwhelming for a group of people where many were new to moths.

Brown Rustic, not surprisingly was far and away the commonest species but demonstrated some of the variability in appearance as well as showing the effects that wear can have.

The Peppered Moth (illustrated) provided an opportunity to talk about its historical place as an example of evolution in action.

The Brimstone emphasised the colourfulness of some moths while the True Lover’s Knot demonstrated the intricate designs as well as the fascinating common names that moths have been given.

Tony Mainwood
Photo: Helen Mainwood

Aspen/birch area 2 traps

Wet scrub

Alder and Pine 2 traps

True Lover's Knot

Peppered Moth

Brown Rustic
True Lover’s Knot
Common Wave

Peppered Moth
Brown Rustic
Bordered White
Tawny-barred Angle
Peacock
Coxcomb Prominent
Barred Red
Common Wave