A Visitor in Ermine

Moth trapping and the weather this week seemed not to mix, so I was pleased yesterday that the forecast promised a dry night. Dry yes, but it was also surprisingly cold and the moths were in short supply, with only three visitors in the three hours the trap was active. I was particularly delighted with one, a White Ermine (Spilosoma lubricipeda), which was one of my wish-list species ...



This Scalloped Hazel (Odontopera bidentata), pictured below in its holding pot, was quite a challenge to identify. At first sight it seems rather plain but when examined more closely, its subdued colouring disguises some interesting highlights ...


The third moth was another dark-form Coxcomb Prominent (Ptilodon capucina) ...


On reflection, at a time when my study of moths is new and my confidence in handling them is still growing, it was good to have a quiet evening with the trap.

Garden Moths (1)

Here are some of the other moths collected during my first night's trapping. Firstly two Daggers ...

Grey Dagger (Acronicta psi)
Knot Grass (Acronicta rumicis)
This little beauty, a Small Magpie (Euprhypara hortulata), flew away as soon as it was released but, after a very short flight, settled conveniently on the wall beside my front door, allowing me a brief opportunity to take its picture ...


One of two Luna Thorns (Selenia lunularia) found in the trap, resting here in a typical posture, wings open and half raised with the forewings slightly curved ...


Next, two Prominants, the first a Coxcomb Prominent (Ptilodon capucina), a dark form I think, the second a Pebble Prominent (Notodonta ziczac), annoyingly tucking its forehead under the leaf just before it was pictured ...



This tiny Sallow Kitten (Furcula furcula) had a lot of attitude but managed to stay still for a moment in this wings-open pose. I understand this species is scarce in Northumberland.


Finally, an unidentified moth which I hope someone will be able to name. It was longer than the two daggers above. Thanks are due to Stewart Sexton who has identified this as a Clouded-bordered Brindle (Apamea crenata) ...