Moth Conservation

A look into the current state of moths in North Antrim and beyond and the hope for a brighter and wilder future

The Art and Science of Studying Moths

04/02/2024

The recording of moths is critical to the protection of these beautiful and important animals. Only by knowing where species are, where they are moving to and how their populations change over the longer term can we firstly recognise there is a problem and secondly figure out what we can do about it. ...more

Moths in Decline - Part 1

29/01/2024

Moths are a barometer for the health of the environment around us, and they are in trouble.
The population of the stunning Garden Tiger collapsed by over 90% since the late 1960s. Mild, wet winters and warm springs are believed to have impacted larval survival
The population of the stunning Garden Tiger collapsed by over 90% since the late 1960s. Mild, wet winters and warm springs are believed to have impacted larval survival
...more

Moths in Decline - Part 2

29/01/2024

Loss and degradation of semi-natural habitats and impacts on our moths
Species rich grasslands are an important source of nectar for adult moths and provide a wide range of food-plants for their larvae. Decades of loss and fragmentation has had significant impacts on our nature.
Species rich grasslands are an important source of nectar for adult moths and provide a wide range of food-plants for their larvae. Decades of loss and fragmentation has had significant impacts on our nature.
...more

Moths in Decline - Part 3

29/01/2024

Moths in a changing climate
Some moths adapted to the cooler climate of northern regions, such as the Grey Mountain Carpet appear to be retreating in distribution. This species has experienced a 81% decrease in distribution between 1970 and 2016.
Some moths adapted to the cooler climate of northern regions, such as the Grey Mountain Carpet appear to be retreating in distribution. This species has experienced a 81% decrease in distribution between 1970 and 2016.
...more

New Moths to North Antrim

04/02/2024

It has not all been loss, in most years the species list is added to.
Pale Tussock (Calliteara pudibunda)

2023 saw this attractive species, in terms of moth and caterpillar, being recorded for the first time in North Antrim, with multiple individuals near Glenarm. ...more

A Wilder Future for Our Moths

04/02/2024

Coming Soon