A Good Moth Morning

The moth trap was set out on top of a white sheet on the log in the back garden last night.  We were greeted with more moths this morning than we have had over the last few weeks.  When the sheet was lifted up to look for any hidden moths, this little fella was spotted emerging from his outer skin.

The remains of the skin was left on the sheet, showing that the case had split at the head end and the insect had pulled himself out. 

Initially the name of the insect was unknown but about half an hour later when photographed again his wings had stretched and hardened and we could see that he was a froghopper!  He was hidden under a fold in the sheet for protection.

Getting back the the moths, it was photograph time!

Moths who had their photo taken included Elephant Hawkmoth, Poplar Hawkmoth - who with some encouragement showed his red underwings, Peppered Moth and Pebble Prominent.  Thank you to Josh, Gordon, Julia and Brian for identifying all the moths this morning.

Tony did the stocktaking whilst Mike continued painting the cabin and both continued with that task this afternoon.  Thank you.

The ringing team are starting their journey to Cape Wrath tomorrow for their annual seabird ringing.  If we can receive information from them, their progress will be reported on the blog.