National Moth Night at Foxearth Meadows (8 & 9 July 2021)

by Darren Underwood

“We managed to record at least 51 ‘species’ (although a few could only be identified to genus level). The highlight was the Dotted Fan-foot which is classed as ‘Nationally Scarce B’ (meaning it has been recorded in just 31-100 hectads (10km national grid squares). This is a species of fen-type habitats and is a bit of an East Anglian speciality.

Equally nice (as it is also classed as ‘Nationally Scarce B’) was the micro moth Monochroa palustrellus. We had three individuals of this species.
 
In addition, Round-winged Muslin and the micro moth Chilo phragmitella are both classed as ‘Local’.
 
Other noteworthy and/or attractive/interesting species recorded  included Cream-bordered Green Pea, Privet Hawkmoth, Poplar Hawkmoth, Elephant Hawkmoth, Buff-tip, Bee Moth, Green Silver-lines, Pale Prominent, Barred Straw, Buff Arches and Short-cloaked Moth.
 
I also recorded the Lunar Hornet Clearwing moth on the reserve on 24 July. The larvae feed internally on the bark of willows and sallows. Traditionally, they have been very difficult to observe, but the recent availability of a pheromone lure has meant they are now being seen much more frequently”.