Calling all Strathspey and Badenoch "Moth-ers"
It’s National Moth Week and Strathspey and Badenoch has plenty to celebrate in the beauty, life cycles, and habitats of the creatures.
“Moth-ers” of all ages and abilities are being encouraged to learn about, observe, and document moths in their backyards, parks, and neighborhoods.
The Week is being held worldwide and still has a few days to run until the end of the month.
“NMW offers everyone, everywhere a unique opportunity to become a Citizen Scientist and contribute scientific data about moths,” say David Moskowitz and Liti Haramaty, of The Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission, who held local moth nights for five years before taking things to an international level.
Through partnerships with major online biological data depositories, NMW participants can now help map moth distribution and provide needed information on other life history aspects around the globe.
“Moths are among the most diverse and successful organisms on earth,” say the team. “Scientists estimate there are 150,000 to more than 500,000 moth species.
“Their colors and patterns are either dazzling or so cryptic that they define camouflage. Shapes and sizes span the gamut from as small as a pinhead to as large as an adult’s hand.
“Most moths are nocturnal, and need to be sought at night to be seen – others fly like butterflies during the day.
“Finding moths can be as simple as leaving a porch light on and checking it after dark. Serious moth aficionados use special lights and baits to attract them.”
To get involved you should Google “National Moth Week” and follow the instructions.
Pictured below is the magnificent Yellow Shell, which is currently under threat from proposed housing developments in Strathspey.
