What’s new?
31 October 2006
Record numbers of moths at Pitsford Reservoir Nature Reserve
This beats all previous yearly totals
The enormous numbers of moths recorded at Pitsford Reservoir Nature Reserve for the first nine months of 2006 has beaten all previous yearly totals.
So far the overall total has reached 28,785 macro-moths (larger moths), with 303 species being recorded. The high numbers of moths are a result of higher than usual nightly temperatures. The warm winds in September also brought many migrant moths to the reserve.
The moths were caught using two light traps, which operate on a nightly basis on the reserve, and are checked every morning by Wildlife Trust warden Phil Horsnail. After being identified and counted, the moths are released unharmed.
Phil Horsnail has been monitoring moth populations at the reserve for ten years. The commonest moth recorded so far this year has been the large yellow underwing followed closely by the common footman. Notable migrants have included convolvulus hawkmoth and the delicate.
Most moth names have derived from Victorian naturalists and include such inspired ones as maidens blush and more down to earth ones like the brick, both of which occur at the reserve. Sometimes the names demonstrate the difficulties of identification with the uncertain.
The reserve is managed in a partnership agreement between Anglian Water and the Wildlife Trust. Visits to the reserve are by permit only. If you are not a Wildlife Trust member, please obtain your permit from Anglian Water at the Fishing Lodge. If you are a member of the Wildlife Trust, please telephone 01604 405285 to obtain a pass.