Watch Moth trapping is a bit like Christmas you never know quite what you have
Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve Ranger Laura Preston is on holiday, so seasonal ranger Mike Butler would like to tell readers about moth trapping. This season has been so great for me, learning new things such as running guided walks and leading events.
There is one thing, however, that I have always wanted to get into, and that is moth trapping.
I really like the idea of trying to identify something new and pick out all its features. I think this is why I am so into bird watching.
Moths come in all shapes, sizes and colours and that is what makes them so amazing.
You can get really tiny ones, known as micros, and the larger ones called macros. Macros are a lot easier to identify, so it is best to start with them.
There are over 2500 moths found in the British Isles, so it is a great hobby to have, as there are always new finds.
A moth trap is not as sinister as it sounds, as no moths are actually harmed in the trapping process. It is essentially a bright light with a bucket that the moths fall in.
Then, in the bucket, you place egg boxes for them to rest and sleep on.
The light is left on overnight in order to attract as many moths as possible. Then, in the morning, you come to the trap and open it up to see what you have.
That is part of the joy; it’s like Christmas, as you never know what you might have.
The best weather for moth trapping tends to be cloudy, as this means there is no moon. A slight breeze is needed so the pheromones of the moths get wafted around and it needs to be quite warm in order for the moths to be active.
I have had so many good finds, a couple even that have not been recorded for the site, which is great.
I really want to get a hawkmoth in my trap, so I always have my fingers crossed for one of those, but no such luck yet.
There are always interesting moths in my trap anyway; so far my highlights included peppered moth, heralds, green silver-lines, green arches and scorched wing, and I am sure there are plenty more to come.
I think the best thing about moth trapping is the fact that anyone can do it. Everyone can go out and make their own moth trap out of something really easy, such as a white blanket and a bright torch, and moths will come.
So go out and give it a try, then report back to me what you have found!