As the days shorten and temperatures cool, many people think of autumn as a time when wildlife activity starts to slow down. However, for moth enthusiasts, this season is one of the best times to discover a diverse range of fascinating species. Autumn is a particularly rich period for moths in the UK, offering a chance to observe some of the most beautiful and intriguing moths. Whether you're a seasoned lepidopterist or a beginner just getting started, this guide will introduce you to the world of autumn moths, the species you're likely to see in September and October, and practical tips for observing them using techniques such as light traps, sugaring, and wine ropes. For the beginner, this can be a good time of year to start moth trapping. It gets dark relatively early and the temperatures are cooler. This can mean an earlier night in bed than waiting for the peak of moth activity in high summer which can occur well after midnight. There are also fewer moths, making the identification challenge easier.
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Why Autumn Moths Are Special
Autumn moths are an important part of the British ecosystem. They play key roles in pollination and serve as a food source for various other species, including bats, birds, and small mammals as they prepare for hibernation and migration. The cooler temperatures of autumn bring out species that are uniquely adapted to these conditions. Many autumn moths have evolved to emerge in late summer and early autumn, taking advantage of the last flush of flowering plants before winter sets in. This season also sees the presence of migratory species that have travelled from warmer climates to the UK, further enriching the diversity of moths you can encounter.
Common Autumn Moths to Look Out For
September and October are great months to observe a variety of moth species, each with its unique beauty and characteristics. Here are some common moths you are likely to see during these months:
Red-green Carpet (Chloroclysta siterata)
Description: This moth is easily recognised by its green wings with red markings. It often rests with its wings outspread, showing off its striking colours.
Habitat: Found in woodlands, gardens, and heathlands.
Activity: It is typically seen from September to November.
Black Rustic (Aporophyla nigra)
Description: A distinctive moth with black, velvety wings and a white, crescent-shaped mark on each forewing.
Habitat: Common in gardens and heathlands.
Activity: It flies from late August to October.
Lunar Underwing (Omphaloscelis lunosa)
Description: This moth is known for its pale, creamy wings with a subtle moon-like mark. It’s often seen resting with its wings closed.
Habitat: Prefers grassy areas and is frequently attracted to light traps in gardens.
Activity: Active from September to October.
Feathered Thorn (Colotois pennaria)
Description: A large, reddish-brown moth with feathered antennae (in males) and a characteristic line across its wings.
Habitat: Found in woodlands and parks.
Activity: This species is active from September to November.
Blair’s Shoulder-knot (Lithophane leautieri)
Description: This moth has greyish-brown wings with distinctive black shoulder markings.
Habitat: Common in gardens, especially in the south of England but has spread rapidly thanks to planting of its foodplant: Cypress trees.
Activity: Seen from September to November.
Setaceous Hebrew Character (Xestia c-nigrum)
Description: This moth has dark brown wings with a white line and a prominent black mark resembling the Hebrew letter 'nun'.
Habitat: Can be found in gardens, woodlands, and heathlands.
Activity: Active from late summer through autumn.
Techniques for Observing Autumn Moths
Observing moths can be an enjoyable and rewarding hobby, especially when using methods that bring them closer for study. Here are some popular techniques for attracting and observing moths during autumn:
1. Light Trapping
Light trapping is one of the most effective methods for attracting moths. Moths are naturally drawn to light, which makes this method particularly successful.
How it Works: A light trap uses a bright light source, typically a mercury vapour lamp or ultraviolet (UV) light, to attract moths. The light is set up in a garden or woodland area, often over a white sheet or in a special trap box. Moths drawn to the light are either collected in the box or rest on the sheet, where they can be observed and identified.
Equipment Needed: You will need a light trap (which can be purchased or homemade), a bright light source (such as a UV bulb), and a white sheet or reflective surface.
Tips for Success:
Set up the trap in a location that is sheltered from strong winds.
Operate the trap on mild, calm nights, as moth activity decreases significantly in cold or wet conditions.
Check the trap regularly to prevent predation by birds or other animals.
Further Learning: For a detailed guide on setting up and using a light trap, watch this helpful YouTube video on light trapping for moths: https://youtu.be/bQCd-4CwLlQ.
2. Sugaring
Sugaring is an age-old technique that involves using a sweet, fermented mixture to attract moths. The smell of the mixture is irresistible to many moth species, especially during cooler months when natural food sources are dwindling.
How it Works: A sugary mixture is painted onto tree trunks, fences, or posts at dusk. Moths are attracted to the scent and will land to feed, making them easier to observe and photograph.
Recipe for Sugaring Mix:
500ml (2 cups) of dark ale or beer
500g (2 cups) of brown sugar
1 ripe banana (mashed)
A few drops of black treacle (optional, for added scent)
Instructions:
Heat the ale or beer gently in a saucepan, then add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
Add the mashed banana and treacle, stirring well to combine.
Allow the mixture to cool before using. It can be stored in a sealed container for a few days.
Tips for Success:
Apply the mixture to surfaces just before dusk to ensure it’s fresh and attractive.
Check the sugared areas regularly with a torch to observe feeding moths.
Use different areas each night to avoid disturbing the same moths repeatedly.
3. Wine Ropes
Wine ropes are another popular method for attracting moths. This technique uses cotton ropes soaked in a mixture of wine and sugar to draw moths close for observation.
How it Works: Ropes or strips of cloth are soaked in a sweet wine mixture and then hung from tree branches or draped over fences. Moths are attracted by the scent and will come to feed.
Recipe for Wine Rope Mix:
1 bottle of cheap red wine (expensive wine can also be used, but it is no better)
500g (2 cups) of brown sugar
Instructions:
Heat the wine in a saucepan and add the brown sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
Allow the mixture to cool.
Soak lengths of rope or strips of old fabric in the wine mixture until fully saturated.
Hang the soaked ropes in areas where moths are likely to visit, such as along hedgerows or in gardens.
Tips for Success:
Choose locations that are sheltered from the wind.
Check the ropes regularly after dark using a red light torch to avoid startling the moths.
Re-soak the ropes every few nights to keep the scent fresh and attractive.
Sugaring and wine ropes are particularly good for Catocala species. If you are very lucky, you may attract the rare ,but stunning Clifden Nonpareil or Blue Underwing.
Conservation and Respect for Wildlife
When observing moths, it’s important to consider their conservation and well-being. Many moth species are declining due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Here are some tips to help protect moths while enjoying this hobby:
Avoid over-handling: If you need to handle moths, do so gently and release them quickly to avoid causing stress or damage.
Minimise light pollution: While light traps are effective, try to use them sparingly and turn off lights when not in use to reduce disruption to local wildlife.
Create a moth-friendly environment: Plant native flowers and shrubs that provide food and shelter for moths and their caterpillars. Night-blooming flowers like evening primrose and jasmine are especially attractive to moths.
Record your findings: Contribute to citizen science projects by recording and sharing your moth sightings with local wildlife organisations. This data helps researchers monitor moth populations and better understand their behaviour and distribution. Examples are Butterfly Conservation and the Garden Moth Scheme. Records can also be uploaded to iRecord: https://irecord.org.uk/
There are a number of guides available to moths. The best is The Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland by Waring and Townsend.
However, if you are prepared to tackle the smaller moths in your trap, then Sterling and Parsons wrote a similar guide to micro-moths.
Conclusion
Autumn offers a fantastic opportunity to observe the diverse and fascinating world of moths. By using techniques such as light trapping, sugaring, and wine ropes, beginners can attract and observe a wide range of moth species right in their gardens or local woodlands. As you explore the world of autumn moths, remember to respect these delicate creatures and their habitats, contributing to their conservation and the health of the ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, the magic of moth watching is sure to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Athena Nature Training offers a moth trapping experience. Dates and locations are tailored to suit you. If you are interested, contact us on 0115 822 5518 or by email at info@athenanaturetraining.co.uk to discuss it further.
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Happy moth watching!
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