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| Muslin Moth (Diaphora mendica) |
The gap in posting does not represent idleness on my part. Traps have been set, Hebrew Characters (Orthosia gothica) have been identified and recorded but that is all. It is difficult to compose an account of the delights of moth-trapping when all there is to be seen is a moth that has been recorded many times already. The reason for this paucity of results is largely due to the cloudless nights and the attendant drops in temperature. Moths don't like the cold - or it seems all except Hebrew Characters don't like the cold. However, last night there was a change and a Muslin Moth (Diaphora mendica) appeared. An account of a previous acquaintance with this species can be found here This moth's colouring is more grey than the brown that it displays in the photograph.
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| Bee Moth (Aphomia sociella) |
In the house another species of moth was found clinging to the muslin curtain close to the window, as if in homage to our earlier catch. A Bee Moth (Aphomia sociella) was easy to identify by its resting position, a pose common to the Galleriinae family. Another characteristic is that this group of moths produce larvae that feed on the combs inside wasp and bee nests.
Moth activity is taking place in the gardens at Shandy Hall but it is not abundant. Another trap will be put out tomorrow when the forecast is for a cloudier night.
