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Moth Morning 2022

Privet Hawkmoth, Shilton, June 2022.

On the evening of 24 June, moth expert Julian Howe and I set up three moth traps in and around a private garden in Shilton.

The following morning sixteen members and friends came to see the moths that had been trapped overnight. We are very grateful to Julian for all his help in identifying the moths and compiling the list, especially the many micro-moths that had flown in.

Among the highlights were Barred Yellow, Elephant Hawkmoth, Burnished Brass, Small Elephant Hawkmoth, Buff Arches, Clouded Border, Buff Tip and Privet Hawkmoth.

Burnished brass (M. Elford).
Elephant hawkmoth (M. Elford).
Buff-tip (M. Elford).
Buff arches (M. Elford)
Click image to enlarge.

The species list numbered 53, which was low in comparison with previous years. Generally, people who trap moths have reported both lower numbers of species and lower numbers of moths this season. In August 2021 in the same garden 107 species were recorded.

We enjoyed refreshments [bacon sarnies!] in Veronica and Ralph’s lovely garden, and we thank them for their generous hospitality.

The full species lists for 2018, 2021 and 2022 can be found here.

Mary Elford 28 August 2022