Kent Moths - Trapping Reports For 2006 - 2009

Last updated on 1st April 2010

To view reports older than 2010 please click on one of the options below:

If you would like a copy of the species trapped, by Tony Steele, please send a SAE marked envelope, to him, with name of site you would like. Please see our branch newsletter for address details or please email Tony for details. We do not and can not publish postal addresses on this site, sorry.

2010

Two Traps in use. Cloudy and still after dark lights on from 6 to 8 when moth activity stopped.

David Gardner

2009

It was to White Hill Reserve on 29th September. As I arrived a shock awaited me, Rabbits were everywhere, and the whole area looked as though it had been mown, with very little flora left. What long term effect this will have on the insect life remains to be seen, but it certainly affected the nights catch with only twenty eight moths of twelve species being recorded. The commonest moths of the night were Barred Sallow (11), Large Yellow Underwing (6) and Setaceous Hebrew Character (2). Others noted, all singletons, were Straw Dot, Willow Beauty, Square-spot Rustic, Common Marbled Carpet, Pine Carpet, Red-green Carpet, Beaded Chestnut, and the micros Acleris emargana and Carcina quercana. This was to be my last outing for some time as shortly after I had a fall and sustained a serious injury to my arm

Tony Steele

It was back to Dibgate/St Martin’s Plain on August 5th. After checking in at security, I made my way to where I was hoping to trap, only to find the area was full of cows and troops, not a good combination. An alternative site was soon found and the traps set up, separated by a copse of Blackthorn. Forty nine species were recorded in total, with the highlight being several examples of the Sharp-angled Peacock. Some of the other species seen were Pale Prominent, Straw Dot, Ruby Tiger, Black Arches, Barred Hook-tip, Coronet, Canary-shouldered Thorn, Rivulet and Sallow Kitten. Next it was to Bedgebury Forest, on August 14th. On this visit I ventured further into the site, setting up the traps some 70 feet apart on a curving trackway. Although it was a mild night for some reason there were not that many moths about, with just 27 species recorded at the Actinic and only 19 at the MV, and they included Pine Hawk, Rosy Footman, Peacock Moth, Bordered Beauty, Scalloped Hook-tip, Square-spot Rustic and Satin Lutestring. Just before leaving the site a stop was made at the Forestry Commission offices where an inspection of the sodium lamps around the building revealed another 15 species, which included Coxcomb Prominent, Common White Wave and Straw Underwing.

On 19th August I had intended going to Mereworth, but as there was a major exercise taking place involving some 150 troops it was to Hemsted Forest instead. This was a much better night with 39 species at the Actinic and 26 for the MV. The two traps were sited on two separate trackways so I was kept rather busy visiting each in turn noting such species as Yellow Shell, Black Arches, Peacock Moth, Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Dusky Thorn, Common Wainscot and Birch Mocha. Many micro’s were recorded which included Epinotia trigonella, Rhyacionia pinicolana, Argyresthia goedartella and Hypatima rhomboidella. After phoning beforehand to see if it was clear of troops, (it was) went to Mereworth on 30th August. The traps were sited on a track in a very sheltered area. Despite the mild conditions it was not that good a night with a mere 23 species at the Actinic and only 13 for the MV. The commonest moth being Snout, with a total of six noted. Some of the other species noted were Flame Carpet (new to the site), Green Carpet, Pretty Chalk Carpet, Lesser Swallow Prominent, Brimstone Moth and Square-spot Rustic.

My next outing was on 8th September, to Hythe Ranges Training Area. Although getting late in the season, I was therefore not expecting much, how wrong I was. The two traps were situated on a shingle and herb rich grassy area some 200 feet apart, separated by a small stand of stunted evergreen Oak. Being so far apart I was kept busy visiting each trap in turn noting such species as Rush Veneer, Orange Swift, Flounced Rustic and Large Yellow Underwing. Then came the first surprise of the night, the pyrale Oncocera semirubella, a Notable B species. This was the first of 13 recorded. Some of the other species noted were Brimstone Moth, Brown China-mark, Light Emerald, Lime-speck Pug and Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing. Also noted were 77 examples of Square-spot Rustic. Just as I was about to end the night another rarity arrived, which was a single example of Cynaeda dentalis, a Red Data Book species. Before leaving the site an examination of the security lights on the main gatehouse was made and five species were noted around them.

Next it was to Hollow’s Wood, near Shoreham, on September 14th. It was another quiet night despite the rather mild conditions with the Actinic attracting twenty species and the MV a mere twelve, with many of them singletons. The commonest moth being the Snout, with 18 noted. Other species included Sallow, Barred Sallow, Centre-barred Sallow, Spruce Carpet, Brindled Green, Svensson’s Copper Underwing and Pale Mottled Willow. There was some excitement though, as I was setting up for the evening a Deer suddenly bolted from the undergrowth right next to me, gave me quite a fright!

Tony Steele

On June 3rd a “mothing night” was held at Mereworth Woods for the MOD Conservation Group which oversees the management of the site. I was accompanied on this night with David Gardner and we arrived early to set up the traps before the event. Around a dozen interested members attended, and with three traps in use, including David’s super duper one, we were kept busy visiting each in turn, noting such species as Pale Oak Beauty, Satin Lutestring, Common Lutestring, Small Yellow Wave, Grey Birch, Brindle White-spot, White-pinion Spotted, Scorched Wing and True Lover’s Knot. The evening was a great success with several new species for the site being recorded, thanks to David’s expertise with the micro’s. On 12th June it was to Morden College. It was another quiet night, with a mere 29 species recorded, including Shoulder-striped Wainscot, Sallow Kitten, Buff Tip, Bee Moth, Green Pug, and Straw Dot. On June 20th it was to White Hill, on what proved to be a most successful visit. Using just the Actinic set up, fifty nine species were recorded, of which the most interesting being Brown Scallop, Triple-spotted Pug, Lace Border and Coronet. Just some of the other species included Clouded Silver, Beautiful Golden Y, Small Yellow Wave, Orange Footman and Ringed China-mark.

It was back to Mereworth on June 25th, on what turned out to be a rather exciting night. My chosen trapping spot was at the far end of the snake pit, and as I was setting up the traps an army vehicle suddenly appeared. I had assumed that the site was unoccupied. Producing my MOD Pass I explained to the officer what was occurring and he informed me that a night exercise was due to take place, so I agreed with him that I would not use the MV to save the troops night vision. Trapping with soldiers moving around through the undergrowth was rather interesting, especially when a flare ignited. Given all the activity around me, 47 species were still recorded which included Iron Prominent, Tawny-barred Angle, Green Silver-lines, Waved Carpet, Toadflax Pug, Lobster Moth and a single Beautiful Snout. My next outing was on the 1st of July, to an area on the outskirts of Folkestone. The twin army accommodation camps of Dibgate & St Martin’s Plain are surrounded by chalk grassland, woodland and a stream with Alder Carr, beside which I set up the traps. As this site had never been trapped before I was hoping for some really interesting species, and I was not disappointed. At the nights end 58 species were noted, which included five classed as Local, and these were Large Twin-spot Carpet, Dingy Shell, Rosy Footman, Light Brocade and Lunar-spotted Pinion. Just some of the others were Drinker Moth, Small Rivulet, Sandy Carpet, Smoky Wainscot and Burnished Brass.

Two trips to Mereworth were undertaken, on July 10th and 15th. On the first visit an amazing 16 Beautiful Snout were noted. I was expecting one or two as I was next to its foodplant, Bilberry, but sixteen of them were a surprise. Some of the other species were Peacock Moth, Waved Carpet, Sating Lutestring, Small Angle Shades, Scallop Shell, Bordered White, Large Emerald, July Highflyer and a single Bilberry Pug. On the second visit the traps were set up in an area normally visited during the winter months. Clouded Silver, Dun-bar, Buff Footman, Scalloped Hook-tip, Buff Arches, Small Emerald and Marbled Minor were among the species seen. The highlight was the arrival of a single White-line Snout, which is a rather secretive species and rarely seen. Next it was to Hemsted Forest near Sissinghurst, on 28th July. I entered the site by the south entrance and set up the two traps at a 4-way junction. With ideal conditions moths arrived in numbers, at least at the Actinic, with Dingy Footman, Scarce Footman, Ruby Tiger, Small Rivulet, Tawny-barred Angle and Scallop Shell being among the first. At the MV were Rosy Footman, Pine Hawk-moth, Flame Shoulder, Mother of Pearl and Iron Prominent. Totals for the evening were forty four species at the Actinic, but for some reason only twenty six at the MV. A few of the other species noted were Small Fan Footed Wave, True Lover’s Knot, Flame Shoulder, Dark Arches and the rather scarce Small Rufous.

Tony Steele

Broadleaved wood and chalk grassland.

Lord’s Wood is part of the MoD training estate between Dover and Lydden, with the farmland part let to a tenant. Thus Natural England (who provide grants to the farmer for sympathetic land management) and the MoD (as landowners with an interest in conservation) were each keen for the area to be surveyed for moths. Thus it was that David Gardner, Ian Ferguson & Peter Kirby visited on 26th June.

We each ran two traps, all opting for one within the woodland and the other in more open terrain to cover as many habitat types as possible. We spread out somewhat but saw no sign of the soldiers who were apparently also present in the woods that night. No doubt they saw us; certainly the resident badgers did – and were distinctly unimpressed! We placed the traps in two of the four one-km squares this woodland block covers, one north of the other.

The hot and humid conditions meant lots of moths were flying but we saw no particular evidence of migrant species – virtually all seemed to be resident creatures. In particular, there were no Rannoch Loopers, although one of the party had caught one the previous night in Ashford. Each trap produced moths not in any other so the total for the night was 129 species made up of 90 macros 38 micros and one butterfly, a Marbled White which came to a woodland trap. Overall there are 282 records and a recorded count of all lepidoptera of 560. The Privet Hawk-moth was easily the most impressive on size but the highlight of the evening was the Silver Barred. Not a large moth but quite striking in its own way. First seen in Kent as a migrant in 1965 but now locally established around the coast and an occasional wonder further inland. Other special moths include Eriopsela quadrana, Olindia schumacherana and both White-banded and Waved Carpets. Traps under Oak produced impressive numbers of the Green Oak Tortrix moth while those in the open were inundated with C. culmella. Among the first to arrive at the traps were both sexes of the Ghost Moth, though the ladies eventually outnumbered the gentlemen buy about four to one. They even appeared in the traps within the woods, which is not what might be expected. The Variegated Golden Tortrix also showed up in modest numbers. It was last seen in quantity in 2003 when they could number up to 400 in a night and swamp everything else. They were nowhere near that abundant but could well prove more widespread this year. Since then, they have mostly been seen as singletons but numbers showed a slight increase last year.

The July Highflier was strongly in evidence with many patterns, Common Swift was also plentiful, and varied. There were many Mottled Beauties, including several of the form conversaria – most striking for what is essentially a black and white moth. Modest numbers of Willow Beauty were present. No species was at all six traps but these species were in five, Ghost, Common Swift, Spindle Ermine, Diamond-back Moth, Dark Fruit-tree Tortrix, Udea olivalis, Barred Yellow, Green Pug, Mottled Beauty, Marbled White Spot and Beautiful Golden Y.

Scorched Wing added a splash of colour however the footmen were few and far between; only one each of Common and Red-necked Footmen noted. Woodland specialists included the rather pretty Green Arches, Green Silver-lines, Maple Prominent, Coxcomb Prominent and Common Lutestring. Grassland specialists included the Drinker and Small Elephant Hawk-moth.

We stayed until turned 0300 hours in the morning when fuel was all but exhausted – petrol for the generators and chocolate for the entomologists! At least there is not much traffic on the roads at that time to slow the journey home.

A systematic list of the species recorded follows:

David Gardner, Ian D Ferguson & Peter Kirby

A by-product of writing a book on moths is that sometimes the data begs questions – has this species really not been seen for 30 years? Why are there no moths at all in that area? Etc. Visits have to be arranged to fill in some of the gaps in our knowledge – no one could publish a book with so many incomplete bits. So it was that DCG and IDF visited Old Park in Canterbury on 19th June 2009.

Old Park is now owned by the army but was acquired by monks in Norman times to secure their water supply. It seems unlikely that the rather infertile land was farmed before then and has certainly not been cultivated, or otherwise aggressively managed, since. Part of the site houses the Barracks of the Argyle & Sutherland Highlanders, about half the area given over to a depot was developed for housing, a large part is leased to the Canterbury Gold Club and most of the remainder is used for training. It is acid grassland with some extensive areas of both scrub (some virtually woodland) and gorse. Altogether a rather nice wilderness close to the City centre. If it was not owned by the military, it would have all been built over by now.

A day-time search of the Birch trees (mainly on the golf course) and the Alder trees (many in the pond area) failed to yield any clearwings at all, and certainly not of the Welsh Clearwing (never before seen in Kent, but this was the most promising habitat) or the White-barred Clearwing (not reliably reported from Kent since 1963). But these were always very long shots at best. The results were not all negative. We watched a Red Admiral seeking out a sap run on an Oak tree, walk down to it and imbibe the fermenting juices. The aroma – somewhat akin to silage – was clearly apparent to our noses from several feet away. Nearby was a Common Emerald that may have been sleeping off the night before! We also netted various micros as we walked round including Anarsia spartiella. Two species of caterpillar were noted, ten Mullein Moth, on Mullein and variously sized, also a rather small Chocolate-tip between spun leaves of Aspen. The influx of Painted Lady butterflies was still much in evidence here, though it has all but disappeared around my garden. In fact, we came across about as many as one might expect moths in a typical trapping session.

We determined that the most promising place to moth trap was on the golf course, in some of the older stands of woodland. The problem was that the golf course was locked up at night but we had contacts via the MoD and could access the site through the Barracks. An Ariel photograph showed a track form the training area to the golf course but – walking it on the ground – showed that you would have needed a tank to pass that way now. The photo was at least ten years out of date. We had to work out Plan B – a second choice of location.

At one stage we saw smoke issuing from one of the acid grass fields and went to investigate. It was a fire but obviously only recently started and had not taken hold. Both of us systematically stamped out the flames with our feet starting on the edge that was closest to the wind so that it would not engulf us as we tackled the leading edge. As soon we could free up a mobile we rather breathlessly phoned the guardroom to inform them. They came with fire extinguishes and doused down the fence posts and areas where the fire was on the roots and could easily have flared up again. Later we glimpsed a fire engine in the area that had been called to douse down the burnt area.

It was a hard day covering the extensive site in the heat so a detour was made to Fordwich (The George & Dragon) for refuelling in the evening. Both of us drank two pints (of Orange & Lemonade – we were driving) to slake the thirst. There might also have been a pudding involved. Strenuous work moth hunting! Then back to the night session.

The location of a moth trap strongly affects the catch and choosing the right spot is something of an art. In brief, a sheltered location will be warmer but an open aspect will mean the light can attract moths from a greater radius. We both opted for the predictable solution – two traps, one sheltered and one open to hedge our bets. DCG went to the extremes with one trap deep in among the trees and one totally exposed. IDF opted for within scrub and on the edge of scrub. This approach aims to target different habitats (and thus hopefully a greater range of moths) and to ensure at least one trap copes with the weather conditions on the night.

While setting up firstly one of the troublesome bikes turned up with female passenger, no helmets of course, then a group of youths came past and enquired what we were doing. This curiosity is not uncommon and the lads seemed OK, even if the lasses thought moths were “scary”. It seems, however, that at least the first individual was not fully a part of the group and was possessed of a peculiar property in that once he passed a spot fires mysteriously broke out before the other got there. The second part of the group had more sense and started trying putting out the fires, much as we had earlier in the day. But this was gorse and more dangerous [higher and hotter]so it was time to use the mobile again. The army appeared promptly but the youngsters had split up and disappeared. Not long after that a fire engine attended, rather gingerly progressing along the track. We guided it round a deep and water filled rut and it just squeezed through the gates. A short while later the police appeared. They, however, were too frightened of the paperwork involved if they so much as scratched their car and stopped well short of the action. Further, as no one had apprehended the culprits, they saw no point in pursuing the matter (just in case they caught them, presumably). They then waited for the army to return to navigate them off site in case they got lost. Aren’t our policemen wonderful!

By now the sun was setting. Normally there would be an hour or so to wait for the action to get underway but DCG’s deep cover trap was in such a dark location that it started producing the goods right from the outset, first in was Telechrysis tripuncta. The evening was not perfect weather but not at all bad, with some 70% cloud cover and remaining mild. A brief cold front moved through between 0010 and 0045 hours but moths were still trickling in at about 0115 hours when we decided to call a halt to proceedings. We knew it would take about an hour to pack up the traps and get of site (we were locked in and had to exit via the Barracks) plus a further hour or so to get home. Much later and we would be getting back in daylight.

Was it all worth it? Of course! We may not have encountered any mega rarities but we saw a good range of moths. The trap in the open had a modest count overall but it got Aroga velocella and eleven of a particularly pretty species, Sophronia semicostella which only one other trap had a single. The species encountered were not just the usual woodland suspects though a goodly few of these did turn up but included many that feed on hawthorn and blackthorn, examples being Peach Blossom, Blotched Emerald, Green Silver-lines, Green Oak Tortrix and Bramble Shoot Moth and Blue-bordered Carpet. The regulars from grassland areas Dark Arches, Straw Dot and Cinnabar, were joined by Brown Rustic and Rosy Marbled. One particular moth of interest seen was the Sharp-angled Carpet, not rare but not seen every year in Kent and has a peculiar distribution that does not follow any obvious geographical feature. The larvae feed on various species of chickweed and stitchwort, which are widespread across most of the County but the moth certainly is not. There were at least a dozen Elephant Hawk-moths and a Small Elephant Hawk-moth. Interestingly the patterns on these moths were not normal at all so it helped seeing them side by side The Swallow Prominent was a visitor from the Aspen. In total, we saw 129 species made up of 48 micros 8 butterflies and 73 macros and filled in a gap on several distribution maps. It was also good fun with a little excitement thrown in.

	Distribution map of Sharp-angled Carpet, all records

Ian D Ferguson & David Gardner

Heard about this one?
BBC South East and Radio Kent got interested.

In 2008 I was contacted by the Medway Valley Countryside Partnership to check on a species that was infesting an apple tree or two at Cobtree Manor Country Park. Eventually I found the entrance and the trees in question but missed the person I was supposed to meet but I had left a moth book on the dashboard so a note was left on the windscreen wiper and I emailed back my identification. The trees were Bird Cherries and the moths Bird-cherry Ermines. I found six adults some of which had incorrectly expanded wings and there was a general sense of having been left behind. I counted the number of opened pupae cases and came up with a total for the smaller tree of 300 and 500 for the large tree. So that was 806 then.

In 2009 I was contacted by BBC South East to see if I could attend a filming session at the park and on getting there we were faced with a much larger tree than in 2008. It was the other side of the car park in the open and covered with moths. The land around the base of the tree to a diameter of say 10 m was covered in silk covering grass, herbs as well as suckers form the tree, more of those later. The trunk was covered in silk, as were the branches and even the twigs. The tree was just coming back into leaf and producing cherries. The other invitees were from Medway Borough Council and I told the cameraman and reporter about the other trees. There we found an interesting surprise, the smaller trees were noticeably colder to stand by. They are shaded from the south and the moths were a week or more behind those on the warmer tree with many more caterpillars even thought the population was less. There were even caterpillars on the outside of the silk which could be seen to be making silk themselves. I counted the pupae on show and came to the same numbers as before but I am yet to count the caterpillars in the photographs.

The warmer tree in the open is much bigger and by counting areas to get a number for a given size of tree bark and building up the areas to cover a side of the tree where the moths were resting I easily got to 4000 adults. There were some caterpillars still here in the pupae bunches on the tree but again I am yet to count these. Many adults had incorrectly expanded wings, probably normal as a percentage in the wild but of course rare in the moth traps in gardens as the moth have to fly some distance to get there! There were also wings on the ground but not in sufficient numbers to indicate predation en masse.

While we were at the larger tree I learned that the original photograph that got the interest this year was from a councillor and its very good too. I hope we can get a digital copy for this article as it shows the circle of silk before the mowing took place the day we were there, also many adults were moving away from the trunk and settling in the grass, the early ones getting caught by mowing.

I found the TV situation very much easier than the day before on the annual walk on the MOD training estate, this time above the Eurostar loading area, junction 11a. This was tedious and for those who had come to find species for the MOD and discuss management on site, pointless other than for showing support for the land management team. Shame as we could have gone straight up to the top of the hill and seen the most charismatic, photogenic species and done all the walk by sessions on the way home.

On my return home I was contacted by BBC Radio Kent to arrange a phone in then next day and that went okay too.

Back to the Suckers!

The gaps between the stems held a hive like mass of pupae cases covered in silk from which the moths were hatching so that's 4001...4002...4003 ! All the newly hatched moths seemed to want to get to the top of the little stems and there was sibling rivalry to see who would be on top! They were almost erupting out of the pupae mass, or frothing at least .

The moths moved their antennae in groups on the truck, maybe 30 to 50 at a time then another area and this had nothing to do with the breeze. The moths on the top of the suckers continually touched each other with their antennae. Interesting to watch even if I am not clear as to why it was being done.

Too Many Caterpillars?

We also learned that caterpillars had been reported to have left the tree, moved through the grass to the trees to the eastern side, one was a Beech the other a normal Cherry but I could not see any sign of them now. When we were filming by the smaller colder trees the chap doing the mowing came over to display his enjoyment of the moths and he told us that he had film of them in various stages. I hope he does contact the other staff about the films or get them to us anyway. He also mentioned that caterpillars left the smaller trees heading off in the grass. Maybe this is a natural population control as the pressure rises some group up and move away to find another food plant. This may explain why I came to similar numbers for these trees in both years, perhaps that is the maximum that size of tree can feed.

Below are some photos taken at Cobtree. Please click on an image to view a bigger version. Thank you to Eva Girling for her photos. In the next few week we will add some video of this moth. Please keep checking this page for more detail.

Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © Eva Girling		Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © Eva Girling		Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © Eva Girling
Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © Eva Girling		Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © David Gardner		Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © David Gardner
Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © David Gardner		Bird-cherry Ermine Cobtree Manor Country Park Photo © David Gardner

David Gardner

On 30th April a return visit was made to Mereworth Woods, to an area last trapped during 2007. The trap was set up on one of the firebreaks radiating out from the central troop shelter. First to arrive were Early Tooth-striped, Brown Silver-line, Nut-tree Tussock, Pebble Hook-tip, Narrow-winged Pug, Brindled Pug and Early Thorn. Whilst having a “walk round” a moth was seen by torchlight and netted. Upon examination it was one of the longhorns with the rather long name of Nematopogon swammerdamella. Arriving back at the trap found Red-green Carpet, Waved Umber, Early Grey, Scalloped Hook-tip, Lesser Swallow Prominent, Hebrew Character, Iron Prominent, Scarce Prominent, Grey Birch and Clouded Drab. At the nights end twenty five species had been recorded with the others being Oak Nycteoline, Spruce Carpet, and the micros Neofaculta ericetella, Clepsis spectrana, Epinotia immundana, Esperia sulphurella and Micropterix calthella. On May 6th it was back to Dene Park Wood, this time to a different location within the site. First arrivals were Brown Silver-line, Oak-tree Pug, Purple Thorn, Small White Wave, Nut-tree Tussock, Brimstone Moth and Barred Hook-tip. With the evening being cloudy and very mild, I was kept busy logging each species, such as Brindled Pug, Common Quaker, Oak Nycteoline, Orange Footman, Least Black Arches, Peach Blossom and Coxcomb Prominent. At the night end 117 moths of 27 species were recorded. As I made my down the track leading to the car park and exit, I disturbed a courting couple in their car. I have never seen a car leave so fast before!

It was to White Hill on May 13th, again at the Station end of the site. Although it was cloudy and very mild, for some reason there was not that many moths about, many species recorded were just singletons such as Common Swift, Scalloped Hazel, Common Wave, White-pinion Spotted, Marbled White Spot, Maple Prominent and Clouded Silver. The most numerous moth of the night was Orange Footman, a Local species with twenty three being recorded. Four new to site list were recorded though, all micro’s, which were Monopis laevigella, Pseudargyrotoza conwagana, Nemaxera betulinella and Prays fraxinella. It was back to Mereworth Woods on May 19th, which proved to be another quiet night, despite the ideal conditions. In two hours of trapping a mere 79 moths of 26 species were recorded, some of which were Green Carpet, Common Wave, Pebble Hook-tip, Ochreous Pug, Lesser Swallow Prominent, Scorched Wing, Tawny-barred Angle and Grey Pine Carpet. My last visit to King’s Wood was during April 2008, so a visit was long due and it was there that I ventured on 28th May. I was hoping to trap in a new Tetrad, but due to a strong breeze blowing I was obliged to go further into the site to a more sheltered location. The evening went very well with one hundred and fifty moths of forty five species being recorded, such as Map-winged Swift, Toadflax Pug, Satyr Pug, Chinese Character, Peacock Moth, Barred Hook-tip, Scorched Wing and Cream Wave. Just before I was about to pack up a swishing sound was heard approaching, and from around a corner came over a dozen cyclists on a night-time ride through the wood. On 31st May it was to Mereworth Woods (again!). Trapping took place at the entrance to the area known as the snake pit, so called because Adders can be found in this small valley. One hundred and forty nine moths of forty six species were recorded on this visit, which included White-pinion Spotted, Green Silver-lines, Cream Wave, Pale Prominent, Birch Mocha, Scorched Wing, Marbled White Spot, Common White Wave and Triple-Spotted Pug.

Tony Steele

My next outing, on 7th April, was to Dene Park Wood. This is a Forestry Commission site near Tonbridge. After driving deep into the wood the trap was set up on a wide trackway. Although there was an almost full moon, being so far under tree cover it did not seem to affect the catch. First arrivals were Engrailed, Satellite, Small Quaker, Twin-spotted Quaker and Common Quaker. Next it was Diurnea fagella, with the normal form and several examples of the melanic form seen. Other species noted were Hebrew Character, Chestnut, Clouded Drab, Lunar Marbled Brown and the micro Eriocrania subpurpurella. Total numbers for the night were 58 moths of 15 species. Next it was to Morden College on the edge of Blackheath in Southeast London, on the night of April 13th. With the night being nice and mild, for some reason there were not many moths about, just 13 moths of 7 species being recorded, these being Nut-tree Tussock, Common Quaker, Hebrew Character, Brimstone Moth, Pale Prominent and the micros Epinotia immundana and Eriocrania subpurpurella.

April 21st saw my second visit of the season to White Hill. The trap was set up on the open grassland at the station end of the site, on the path leading to the old bonfire site. Although there was a clear sky, it was nice and warm, and the moths arrived in numbers. First were Twin-spotted Quaker, Common Quaker, Nut-tree Tussock, Lunar Marbled Brown, Hebrew Character, Early Tooth-striped, Early Thorn, Waved Umber and Scorched Carpet. At the nights end eighty five moths of twenty species had been recorded, the others being Least Black Arches, Small Quaker, Iron Prominent, V-Pug, Scarce Prominent, Yellow-barred Brindle, Red-green Carpet, Red Twin-spot Carpet, Brindled Pug, Plutella xylostella and Agonopterix arenella. On 23rd April a rare daytime visit was made to Mereworth Woods. While wandering around the following moths were noted, Common Heath, the micros Adela reaumurella, Dichrorampha plumbana and Phyllonorycter maestingella, the latter two being new to site list. On 24th April it was back to Morden College. First to arrive were Emmelina monodactyla, Brimstone Moth, Flame Shoulder, Plutella xylostella and Common Quaker. Then came Waved Umber, Iron Prominent, Nut-tree Tussock and finally a micro, Aspilapteryx tringipennella.

Tony Steele

My first trip of the season was to Mereworth Woods on February 17th, under rather mild conditions. With the heavy snow and low temperatures a couple of weeks previous, I was not expecting much, how wrong I was! Trapping commenced at 1750hrs and immediately a Satellite and a Chestnut arrived at the Actinic trap, with Chestnut and Pale Brindled Beauty at the MV. After approximately 40 minutes the MV bulb failed, completely this time, but not before attracting Dark Chestnut and March Moth. A brief shower passed and then Pale Brindled Beauty’s started to arrive at the Actinic, by the dozen. By the time I stopped at 2000hrs forty three had been recorded, and among them were two Small Brindled Beauty. Other species noted were Spring Usher, March Moth and Tortricodes alternella. Total for the night was 132 moths of 8 species, a good start for the season. It was to White Hill on 25th March, this time at the Fackenden Lane end of the site. Although it started nice and mild it soon began to cool. Only the Actinic trap was in use and first arrivals were Chestnut and the micros Tortricodes alternella and Agonopterix heracliana, the latter being a new addition to the site list. In two hours a total of six species were recorded, with the others being Satellite, Hebrew Character and Pale Brindled Beauty.

It was back to Mereworth Woods on March 11th, to an area never trapped before. The location was found a few weeks prior on a daytime visit. As I made my way through the wood an army vehicle suddenly appeared, the place was full of troops! Luckily, after chatting to an Officer, found that they were not carrying out any training near to where I was going to trap. The trap was situated at a wide track junction, and switched on at 1830hrs. First to arrive were Twin-spotted Quaker, Satellite and Chestnut. Next came Common Quaker, Yellow Horned, March Moth and Small Quaker. At the night’s end, ninety one moths of nine species were recorded, the others being Hebrew Character and Tortricodes alternella. My next outing, on April 1st, was at Hollow’s Wood, a Woodland Trust site near Shoreham. Arrived at my usual location to find that there was a bit of a breeze coming across the top of the hill, so set up the Actinic trap lower down the track where it was calm. First to arrive were Engrailed, Satellite, Early Thorn, Chestnut, Early Grey and Shoulder Stripe. Next arrivals were Twin-spotted Quaker, Common Quaker, March Moth, Clouded Drab, Small Quaker, Early Tooth-striped, Dark Chestnut and Diurnea fagella. Two species were taken home for critical identification and they proved to be Brindled Pug form Hirschki, and the micro Eriocrania subpurpurella. Thus ended another good nights trapping with 88 moths of 16 species.

Tony Steele

2008

My next venture was on August 28th, to Hollow’s Wood near Shoreham. Conditions were perfect, cloudy and very mild. First arrivals, between both traps, were Brimstone Moth, Orange Swift, Square-spot Rustic, Flame Shoulder, Green Carpet, Large Yellow Underwing and Flame Carpet. Also noted were Copper Underwing and the very similar Svensson’s Copper Underwing. The easiest way to distinguish the two species is to examine the palps. On the Copper Underwing they are pale the whole length, whereas in Svensson’s they are dark with white tips. Other species this night included Dun-bar, Mother of Pearl, Phoenix, Peach Blossom, Tawny-barred Angle, Swallow Prominent and Common Wave. My next outing, on September 10th, was to Morden College. Although the traps were situated in almost identical habitat, and separated by a large shrubbery, twenty two species were recorded at the Actinic, but only nine at the MV. Amongst those recorded were Brimstone Moth, Lesser Yellow Underwing, Large Yellow Underwing, Centre-barred Sallow, Orange Sallow, Marbled Beauty, Brindled Green and Small Dusty Wave.

On 16th September it was to Mereworth again, this time to an area last trapped in 2007. With perfect conditions, that is cloudy and mild, moths quickly began arriving at the two traps. First were Setaceous Hebrew Character, Snout, Square-spot Rustic, Oak Lutestring, Common Wainscot, Double-striped Pug, Common Marbled Carpet, Pine Carpet and Autumnal Rustic. The evening also saw four new species for the site list, being Blood-vein, Pinion-streaked Snout and the micro’s Epinotia nisella and Epinotia immundana. Hollow’s Wood was next, on September 23rd. Trapping started at 1920hrs, under rather breezy conditions. Between the two traps just 12 species were recorded, which included Barred Sallow, Large Yellow Underwing, Snout, Brindled Green, Small Square-spot and Double-striped Pug. Some interesting micro’s were recorded, such as Tinea semifulvella, Epinotia ramella and Ypsolopha sequella, the last being classed as Local.

The opportunity arose, on 27th September, for some trapping at Hythe Ranges. As this site covers three tetrads, a location was chosen in an unrecorded one. The Actinic was set up out on the shingle, with the MV some distance away on rough grassland. Trapping commenced at 1920hrs, and finished at 2200hrs with thirty nine species being recorded. The highlight of the evening was the arrival of several examples of Feathered Brindled and L-album Wainscot, both classed as Notable B. Also four Local were noted, which were Large Ranunculus, Yellow Belle, and the micro’s Acleris aspersana and Eudonia pallida. Some other moths noted were Light Emerald, Autumnal Rustic, Hedge Rustic, Deep-brown Dart, Sallow and Flounced Rustic. An inspection of the gatehouse sodium lights whilst waiting to be let out revealed a further two species, Black Rustic and the plume Emmelina monodactyla. A return visit to Hythe Ranges was made on 9th October, again to a new tetrad within the area. Although the evening started mild, it soon cooled and only twenty two species were recorded. Another example of L-album Wainscot was noted together with Barred Sallow, Satellite, Marbled Beauty, Red-line Quaker, Willow Beauty, Autumnal Rustic and the micro Eudonia angustea, a Local species. An inspection of the gatehouse lights, which had been changed to fluorescent, revealed ten species, of which two were of special interest being Oak Nycteoline and the micro Scrobipalpa costella, both Local.

Mereworth was visited next, on the 19th October. First arrivals, at the Actinic, were Chestnut, Common Marbled Carpet, Spruce Carpet and Pink-barred Sallow. First at the MV was December Moth followed by Grey Pine Carpet, Spruce Carpet and the micro Ypsolopha parenthesella. The evening ended with a total of twelve species, including November Moth, the pyrale Orthopygia glaucinalis and the micro’s Clepsis consimilana, Clepsis spectrana and Caloptilia populetorum, the last being classed as Local and new to the site list. It was to Mereworth again on 25th October on which was to be a most interesting night. I arrived to find WW2 German and American troops encamped in the main car-park, along with their vehicles. It was though I had gone back in time, but it was just a re-enactment group. Moth wise, it was a rather quiet night with seven species recorded at the Actinic, and just four at the MV. Among those noted were Chestnut, Yellow-line Quaker, November Moth, Pale November Moth, Autumnal Moth and Common Marbled Carpet. As I was trapping, a motorbike and sidecar kept passing, and on the fifth time stopped. A “German” soldier then appeared and explained that he was lost and could I direct him back to his comrades, which I duly did.

It was White Hill’s turn next, on November 5th, to look for the Plumed Prominent, last recorded here in 1995. The two traps were located adjacent to some Field Maples, its foodplant, and switched on at 1700hrs. First, at the Actinic, were Feathered Thorn, Oak Nycteoline, Satellite and Red-green Carpet. Early arrivals at the MV were Satellite, Chestnut and Barred Sallow. Trapping ended at 1910hrs with no sign of the Plumed Prominent. Other species noted were Yellow-line Quaker, Common Marbled Carpet and the micro’s Agonopterix arenella and Acleris aspersana, the last being new to the site list. It was back to White Hill on November 15th. Once again the two traps were situated next to Field Maples and switched on at 1650hrs, and then a problem, the MV bulb went out, and kept on doing so throughout the night. The evening ended at 1900hrs with 30 moths of 10 species being recorded at the Actinic which were December Moth, Yellow-line Quaker, Chestnut, Red-green Carpet, Common Marbled Carpet, Grey Pine Carpet, Pine Carpet, Brick, November Moth and Acleris sparsana. With the problems with the MV only 7 moths of 6 species were trapped, with just one different to the Actinic being a single Blair’s Shoulder-knot. Unfortunately, there was no sign of the Plumed Prominent.

My final trip of the year was to Mereworth, on the 20th December, on a rather mild night. The Actinic was set up at the junction of four track-ways and the MV was under trees. Trapping commenced at 1640hrs with the almost immediate arrival, at the Actinic, of Chestnut, Winter Moth, December Moth and Alucita hexadactyla. Yet again the MV bulb gave problems, this time packing up completely after fifty minutes, not before attracting December Moth, Chestnut, Winter Moth and Pale Brindled Beauty. The Actinic was much more successful getting in addition Northern Winter Moth, Yellow-line Quaker and Mottled Umber. When trapping ended at 1840hrs, a total of 32 Winter Moths were recorded at the Actinic.

Tony Steele

My next outing, on July 4th, was a return visit to Dene Park Wood near Tonbridge. Weather conditions were perfect, cloudy, no wind and very mild. Trapping started at 2200hrs and first to arrive at the Actinic was the Pyrale, Udea olivalis, which was followed by Broken-barred Carpet, Small Fan-footed Wave, Large Yellow Underwing, Rosy Footman and Riband Wave. First arrivals at the MV were very different, being Brimstone Moth, Water Veneer, Double-striped Pug, Common Emerald and Brindled White-spot. As the evening progressed, more and more moths arrived and I was kept very busy going between the two traps, noting such species as Mottled Beauty, Small Angle Shades, Tawny-barred Angle, Common Marbled Carpet, Minor Shoulder-knot, Little Emerald, Buff Footman, Marbled White Spot, Flame Shoulder and Small Yellow Wave. Many micro’s were potted for identifying later, some of which were Lozotaeniodes formosanus (there’s a mouthful!) Epinotia brunnichana, Archips xylostaena and Eucosma cana. Totals for the night were 49 species for the Actinic and 43 for the MV. A few of the others noted were Coronet (both colour forms) Poplar Lutestring, Lobster Moth, Clouded Silver, Poplar Grey, Buff Arches and Double Square-spot. On 8th July it was back to Mereworth to continue my studies there. Earlier in the year I had found a new patch of Bilberry so that was where I set up the Actinic trap, hoping for Bilberry Pug, which incidentally occurs elsewhere on the site. First to arrive were Common Emerald, Small Fan-footed Wave, Green Silver-lines, Buff Arches and Waved Carpet. The MV trap, which was set up some distance away also had Common Emerald and Waved Carpet plus Rosy Footman, Riband Wave and Common Lutestring. Trapping ended a little after midnight, and as I was making a last check of the Actinic before turning it off, a moth was netted which proved to be a Bilberry Pug, the only one of the night. The night’s totals were 43 species for the Actinic and 27 for the MV. July Highflyer, Miller, Clouded Border, Marbled White Spot, Mottled Beauty, True Lover’s Knot, Beautiful Golden Y, Peacock Moth, Satin Lutestring and Large Emerald were just some of the moths recorded.

After a family holiday it was back to Mereworth again, on 26th July, on what was a most productive night. Trapping commenced at 2130hrs under perfect conditions, cloudy and very warm. At the end of two hours, a respectable 60 species were recorded. Highlights of the evening were Large Emerald, Satin Lutestring (53 of them!), Waved Carpet, Beautiful Snout, Pine Hawk, Rosy Footman, Buff Footman, Narrow-winged Pug and Sallow Kitten. 30th July saw a return visit to the grounds of Morden College. Although trapping started at 2130hrs, it was some time before the first moths arrived. Among the first arrivals, at both traps, were Scarce Footman, Least Carpet, Dun-bar, Marbled Beauty, Flame Shoulder, Straw Dot, Riband Wave and Tree-lichen Beauty. All told, 104 moths of thirty three species were recorded at this suburban location. Some others recorded were Pale Mottled Willow, Knot Grass, Mother of Pearl, Clay, Lime-speck Pug, Mottled Pug and Shuttle-shaped Dart. My next outing was 6th August, once again to Mereworth. Conditions started perfectly, cloudy, warm and humid. First arrival was Small Fan-footed Wave, the nominate type and the darker coloured, form fimbriolata. This was followed by Flame Shoulder, Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Iron Prominent, Large Yellow Underwing, Mother of Pearl, Narrow-winged Pug, Buff Footman and Birch Mocha. As the evening progressed I was entertained by a rather nice lightning display away to the north. Next arrivals were Satin Lutestring, Pebble Hook-tip, Early Thorn, Mouse Moth, Common Carpet and Straw Underwing. By now the lightning was all around, and then the rain came, very heavily. Thankfully it only lasted a couple of minutes. The evening thus ended rather wet, with 52 species being recorded. It was to White Hill next, on 19th August, again at the northern end. The traps were switched on at 2050hrs, and whilst waiting for the first arrivals took a walk around the reserve and noted a great many Chalkhill Blue’s roosting, accompanied by several Common Blue’s and a solitary Brown Argus. Returning to the traps the following were noted, Straw Dot, Large Yellow Underwing, Silver Y, Square-spot Rustic, Orange Swift, Willow Beauty and Brimstone Moth. At the nights end 35 species were recorded, including five new to the site list, those being Pine Carpet, Sallow Kitten, Black Arches, Currant Pug and Lesser-spotted Pinion. On 24th August it was to Mereworth, yet again. The twin Actinic was situated out on the large expanse of heathland, as I was hoping for the rare Neglected Rustic, as this was its preferred habitat. The MV was set up in a woodland ride. First arrivals were Square-spot Rustic, Orange Swift, Rustic, Dun-bar, Green Carpet, Common Carpet, Brimstone Moth and Large Yellow Underwing. Traps were turned off at 2240hrs, with thirty six species being recorded. Alas there was no Neglected Rustic. I am sure that it occurs here, but it is just light shy. Some of the other species noted were Chevron, Phoenix, Black Arches, Birch Mocha, Iron Prominent, Double-striped Pug, Svensson’s Copper Underwing, and the micro’s Apotomis betuletana, Cydia splendana and Pandemis cerasana.

Tony Steele

May 14th saw a return visit to my favourite site, Mereworth Wood. Trapping commenced at 2120hrs, and immediately a Scalloped Hazel arrived at the actinic, which was followed shortly by Brimstone Moth, Green Carpet, Lobster Moth, which was the dark form, and Clouded Border. Among the first arrivals at the MV were Brown Silver-line, White-pinion Spotted, Narrow-winged Pug and Marbled Brown. Trapping ended at 2330hrs with 27 species at the Actinic and 21 at the MV. Some of the species recorded being Red Twin-spot Carpet, Lime Hawk-moth, Coxcomb Prominent, Least Black Arches and Nut-tree Tussock. Many micros were also recorded, such as Eulia ministrana, Neofaculta ericetella, Syndemis musculana and Capua vulgana. Dene Park Wood near Tonbridge was my next outing on 22nd May. I last trapped at this Forestry Commission site on various dates during 2002, so it was long over due a visit. First arrivals at the Actinic were Pebble Hook-tip, Iron Prominent, Brown Silver-line, Shuttle-shaped Dart, Green Carpet, Common Marbled Carpet and Pale Tussock. First at the MV were Silver-ground Carpet, Flame Shoulder, Brindled Pug, Peach Blossom, Pale Tussock and Brimstone Moth. Then they started arriving, Orange Footman, a local species, dozens of them. At the nights end 47 were recorded at the Actinic and 14 at the MV. Total species for the two traps was thirty three at the Actinic and twenty three for the MV, which included Scorched Wing, Maiden’s Blush, Clouded Border, Speckled Yellow, Clay Triple-lines, Satin Lutestring, Green Silver-lines, Alder Moth, Lesser Swallow Prominent and Pebble Prominent.

May 28th it was back to Mereworth, to continue my long-term study of the site. It was a rather uneventful night with twenty one species at the Actinic and fifteen at the MV, such as Little Emerald, Common White Wave, Tawny-barred Angle, Cream Wave, Square Spot, Satin Lutestring and Marbled Brown. Two new to the site list were recorded though, being Dwarf Pug and the micro Caloptilia alchcimiella. On June 7th a trip was undertaken to Hollow’s Wood near Shoreham for National Moth Night. This is a Woodland Trust site, which was last trapped in 2000. Upon entering the site, I was surprised to note that no management had been done since my last visit, and that the access road was now very overgrown. Despite all the extra growth, a suitable trapping location was found. Weather conditions were ideal, cloudy, some showers and warm and humid. Trapping started at 2140hrs and ended at 0010hrs, on what proved to be a most successful night. 43 species were recorded at the Actinic, some of which were Peach Blossom, Sandy Carpet, Narrow-winged Pug, Brindled White-spot, Alder Kitten, Orange Footman, Middle-barred Minor, Green Silver-lines and Marbled White-spot. At the MV 32 species were recorded, which included Common Swift, Satin Lutestring, Cream Wave, Small Phoenix, Tawny-barred Angle, Clouded Silver, Rustic Shoulder-knot and Small Fan-foot. Several interesting micros were also recorded, the best of which was Eucosmomorpha albersana, a Notable B species.

It was back to Mereworth on the 15th June, which was to be my seventh visit of the season. Trapping commenced at 2155hrs with the arrival at the Actinic of Little Emerald, Pale Tussock, Tortrix viridana, Brown Silver-line, Gold Swift, Satin Lutestring and Light Emerald. Early arrivals at the MV were Flame Shoulder, Little Emerald, Beautiful Snout, White-pinion Spotted and Clouded Border. Trapping ended a little after midnight with 24 species being recorded at the Actinic and 20 at the MV. Even after six years of trapping at this site, another four new species were added to the site list, which were Eudonia pallida, Blotched Emerald, Orange Footman and the micro Incurvaria oehlmanniella. On 24th June it was to a completely new location, in the grounds of Morden College, a 300 year old residential home situated on the edge of Blackheath in south east London. Trapping commenced at 2205hrs and first arrivals at the Actinic were the pyrales Crambus pascuella and Chrysoteuchia culmella, which were followed by Shoulder-striped Wainscot, Willow Beauty, Brimstone Moth, Single-dotted Wave and Blotched Emerald. Early arrivals at the MV included Common Marbled Carpet, Bee Moth, Marbled Minor, Heart & Dart and Riband Wave. Trapping ended at 0010hrs, with twenty eight species being recorded at the Actinic and nineteen at the MV. Some of the other species noted were Dark Arches, Scalloped Oak, Double-striped Pug, Small Fan-foot and Poplar Grey. Several micros were taken home for identifying and which proved to be Cnephasia asseclana, Ditula angustiorana and Blastobasis lacticolella. Further visits will be undertaken at this new site. On June 26th it was White Hill’s turn, using just the Actinic set-up. Trapping started at 2210hrs with Crambus pascuella, Clouded Silver, Chrysoteuchia culmella and Light Emerald being the first arrivals. Then a rather drab moth settled on the trap, it was potted and examined, and it proved to be a Brown Scallop, a Local species that was last recorded on the site in 1996. Next arrivals were Pretty Chalk Carpet, Willow Beauty, Snout and Marbled White Spot. Trapping ended just after midnight in heavy rain. Total species count for the evening was 32, with many of them once again singletons. Some others noted were Coronet, V-Pug, Peach Blossom, Double Square-spot, Large Yellow Underwing and Marbled Minor.

Tony Steele

Many thanks to David Gardner for providing these lists of moths trapped.

Mote Park, Maidstone - 6th August 2008

except sp 644 which was recorded on 16/07/08 when checking the site for trapping areas.

Charing Alderbeds - Lepidoptera found on 25th July 2008

Hamgreen Saltings

Capel Wood - 7th July 2008

Court Lodge - 3rd July 2008

Headcorn - Love Lane - 4th June 2008

My next outing was on 27th March, to Mereworth Wood. The weather forecast was checked before leaving home, and it stated that it would be a cloudy night. As I arrived at the site the skies cleared and the temperature dropped, like the proverbial brick! Therefore it proved to be a disappointing night, with just nine moths of five species being recorded, which were Yellow Horned (1), Oak Beauty (4), Small Quaker (2), Early Tooth-striped (1) and Diurnea fagella (1). Returned to Mereworth Wood on 2nd April, to an area last trapped in 2004. Trapping started at 2005hrs, under light drizzle. First arrivals at the actinic were Diurnea fagella, Chestnut, Early Tooth-striped and Yellow Horned. Early arrivals at the MV were the aforementioned plus Nut-tree Tussock and Engrailed. As the evening progressed the drizzle stopped and Common Quaker, Oak Beauty, March Moth and Pine Beauty were recorded at the actinic, with Clouded Drab and the micro Semioscopis avellanella at the MV. Other species at the two traps were Powdered Quaker, Brindled Pug and another micro Eriocrania semipurpurella.

On 26th April a visit was made to King's Wood near Challock. Now that there is only one vehicle entrance to this rather large woodland complex, I did not venture too far into the site until I had re-learnt my way around it. A suitable position was found at the junction of 4 tracks and both traps were soon set up and in use at 2050hrs. For some time nothing arrived, then at the actinic there was Common Quaker, Yellow Horned, Nut-tree Tussock, Purple Thorn and Lunar Marbled Brown. Early arrivals at the MV were Twin-spotted Quaker, Purple Thorn, Hebrew Character and Broom-tip, which is a Notable B species. The evening ended at 2250hrs, with 16 species being recorded at the actinic and just 9 at the MV. Among those noted were Waved Umber, Early Tooth-striped, Bright-line Brown-eye, Brindled Pug and Pine Beauty. Only 2 "micro's" were recorded which were Micropterix calthella and Eriocrania subpurpurella. The next outing was on 3rd May, to Hemsted Forest near Sissinghurst. Once again the lock on my chosen entry had been changed, so another way into the site was found. The traps were switched on at 2100hrs, and almost immediately a Broom-tip arrived at the actinic. This was to be the first of a total of 19 at the actinic, with just 2 at the MV. Being cloudy and very mild, moths arrived continually with Narrow-winged Pug, Pebble Hook-tip, Lunar Marbled Brown, Small Phoenix, Pale Prominent, Streamer and Birch Mocha, a "Local" species. The traps were switched off at 2300 with 18 species at the actinic and 10 at the MV. Others included Pine Beauty, Spruce Carpet, Grey Pine Carpet, Knot Grass, Brindled Pug and the micro Epinotia immundana.

May 8th saw a daytime visit to Mereworth Wood, primarily to look for the day-flying Argent & Sable moth. This could possibly be extinct in Kent now, so a thorough search of the Birch scrub, its habitat, was undertaken. A moth was disturbed and netted, and upon examination proved to be just a common Muslin Moth. Despite much searching and tapping of young Birch trees, no Argent & Sable were found. Wandering around this training area, which incidentally looks much different during daylight hours, Common Heath, Latticed Heath and Speckled Yellow were noted. It was White Hill's turn on 9th May. On this occasion I decided to use just the actinic trap, with great success. Conditions were ideal, being rather warm and humid. A position was found at the "station" end of the site and trapping commenced at 2115hrs with the immediate arrival of Waved Umber that was quickly followed by Barred Hook-tip, Green Carpet, Yellow Barred Brindle and Lime-speck Pug. A short walk by torchlight around the reserve was taken, and three Grizzled Skippers were found roosting at the tops of grass stems. On returning to the trap found Pretty Chalk Carpet, Brimstone Moth, White-pinion Spotted, Nut-tree Tussock and Purple Thorn. Towards the evenings end the best moths of the night were recorded, namely Orange Footman, Marbled Brown and Least Black Arches, all classed as Local. Others species noted included Flame Shoulder, V-Pug, Scorched Carpet and Early Grey.

Tony Steele

The 2008 season has got off to a good start, with four trapping sessions already being carried out. The first of these was at Mereworth Woods, on 19th January, with conditions being exceptionally mild. Both traps were turned on at 1710hrs, and the first arrivals at the Actinic were Pale Brindled Beauty and Spring Usher. First seen at the MV were Chestnut and also Spring Usher and Pale Brindled Beauty. Trapping ended at 1910hrs with 22 moths of 4 species recorded at the Actinic, and nine moths of three species at the MV. Others included the micro&rsquos Acleris cristana and Tortricodes alternella. Also recorded at the Actinic was the dark form of Pale Brindled Beauty, monacharia, which is almost black in appearance. The next outing, on January 29th, was to White Hill, at the station end of the site. It was rather a quiet night, in the two hours of trapping, from 1725hrs to 1935hrs, just twenty two moths of six species were recorded, those being Spring Usher, Pale Brindled Beauty, A.cristana, T.alternella, Epiphyas postvittana and Ypsolopha ustella.

February 24th saw a return visit to Mereworth Woods. It had started to rain heavy as I set off from home and I almost turned back, but decided to carry on as Mereworth seems to have its own micro climate. A trapping site was chosen and by now the rain had turned to a fine drizzle, which stayed all evening. Undeterred, the two traps were set up and turned on at 1805hrs. First at the Actinic were Common Quaker, followed by Satellite, Chestnut, Dark Chestnut and T.alternella. Early arrivals at the MV were March Moth, Pale Brindled Beauty, Oak Beauty and Yellow Horned. At the evening&rsquos end, 2005hrs, a respectable 72 moths of 15 species were recorded. Others noted were Red-green Carpet, Spring Usher, Grey Shoulder-knot, Red Chestnut, E.postvittana and Acleris literana.

March 6th was another very mild night so it was off to White Hill again, in what was to become a remarkable night&rsquos trapping. The lamps were switched on at 1825hrs, and immediately Common Quaker&rsquos started arriving at the Actinic, quickly followed by Chestnut and the odd March Moth. Next came Small Quaker and Yellow Horned, also at the Actinic, but for some reason, nothing appeared at the MV for about an hour when singletons of Satellite, Chestnut and Common Quaker turned up. Then, all of a sudden at the Actinic, March Moth&rsquos by the dozen started to arrive. They were everywhere, in and on the trap, the ground sheet and the surrounding grass. Just before the trap was turned off, I counted 53 of them, but there must have been many more. Most interestingly, only 5 were recorded at the MV. The evening ended at 2030hrs with a grand total of 101 individual moths of 12 species being recorded. Other species were Engrailed, Dotted Border, Agonopterix subpropinquella, A.cristana, Diurnea fagella and Amblyptilia acanthadactyla.

Tony Steele

2007

Now that the new lockable access post has been installed on the track leading up from the main road by Shoreham Station, and the old permanent one removed, a long anticipated mothing session was undertaken on November 28th. The actinic trap was positioned under the trees just before coming out onto the open grassland, which was where the MV trap was situated. Trapping commenced at 1635, and had to end 1845 when it began to rain heavily.

Although it was late in the season, it was still rather mild. The first arrival, at the MV, was a Chestnut Moth, which was followed by Feathered Thorn at the actinic. Then both traps had examples of December Moth and Winter Moth. Two specimens of Epirrita and a single Tortrix were potted at the actinic for identifying at home later. The only other species noted at the MV were 2 examples of the Red-green Carpet. The specimens taken home proved to be November Moth and Tortrix sparsana. Totals for the night were eighteen moths of 7 species.

Tony Steele

September 5th was my next outing to the site. The traps were set up in an area last visited during May 2006. First arrivals at the actinic were Square-spot Rustic, Green Carpet, Autumnal Rustic, Straw Dot and Water Veneer. First at the MV were Straw Dot, Square-spot Rustic, Common Carpet, Brimstone Moth and Large Yellow Underwing. Other species noted between the two traps were Feathered Gothic, Maiden's Blush, Single-dotted Wave, and Grey Pine Carpet. The next visit was 19th September, and which proved to be a quiet night. Although it was mild, there was not a lot of moths about. The actinic had just five species, and the MV seven, such as Oak Lutestring, Light Emerald, Sallow, Snout and Grey Pine Carpet. The final visits for September were on the 24th and 30th. Being rather cool on the 24th, only 11 moths of 6 species were recorded, which included Oak Lutestring, Snout and the micro Phyllonorycter trifasciella. The trip on the 30th was slightly better, with twenty eight moths of eight species, which included a new addition to the site list, namely Dusky Thorn. An interesting observation was the arrival of a mating pair of Common Marbled Carpet which flew to the MV still joined. They were carefully taken to a position well away from the traps.

First visit for October was on the 3rd. The actinic was set up on heathland adjacent to the helipad, and the MV in woodland. Among the two traps, Oak Lutestring, Lesser Yellow Underwing, Snout and Large Yellow Underwing were recorded. Whilst waiting for moths to arrive, an inspection of suitable young Oaks was carried out and many larval mines of the Notable A micro Ectoedemia atrifrontella were found. October the 10th found that Oak Lutestring were still about, together with Chestnut, Pink-barred Sallow, Grey Pine Carpet and Willow Beauty. Species seen on the next visit, October 13th, were almost identical with the addition of Satellite, Red-green Carpet and Brick. It also saw the first of the Epirrita, Pale November Moth and November Moth. Examples of these were taken home for genitalia examination. Final visit for October was on the 25th, with a new species being recorded, Clepsis spectrana. The night also saw the seasons first Autumnal Moth. Other species noted were Satellite, Red-green Carpet and Chestnut.

Three visits were undertaken during November, and these were on the 1st, 7th and 21st. November 1st was particularly rewarding as it was to a location within the complex last visited over a year ago. Apart from several examples of the Epirrita, also recorded was the beautifully coloured Merveille du Jour, and a Green-brindled Crescent. The night of the 7th saw the first December Moths of the year, together with Yellow-line Quaker, Pine Carpet, Red-green Carpet and the micro's Acleris sparsana, Epiphyas postvittana and Ypsolopha ustella. The final visit of the month, on the 21st, saw 51 moths of 11 species recorded. The first Feathered Thorn of 2007 were noted, together with Scarce Umber, Northern Winter Moth, and the micro's Diurnea lipsiella and Agonopteryx arenella.

December 4th was my next visit, and conditions were unusual for the time of year, being remarkably mild. The actinic was set up at a junction of three woodland rides, and the MV was out on an area of heathland. By the evening's end a respectable 43 moths of eight species had been recorded. Between the two traps there were twenty four December Moth, thirteen Northern Winter Moth and ten Winter Moth. Other arrivals consisted of Yellow-line Quaker, Feathered Thorn, November Moth, Pale November Moth and Epiphyas postvittana. My next visit, and final one for the season, was on December 27th, which was another unusually mild night. Trapping commenced at 1635hrs, and first arrival, at the actinic, was a very early Pale Brindled Beauty. This species normally appears towards the middle of January. The MV also had an example. Next, at both traps, was Winter Moth and the tortrix, Epiphyas postvittana. Just two more species were recorded, at the actinic, namely Angle Shades and Grey Shoulder-knot, both singletons. Trapping ended at l84Ohrs, and the tally for the night was 21 individuals of 5 species.

OVER-VIEW OF 2007

Although the total number of species recorded during 2007 was slightly less than 2006, 253 compared to 265, a further forty new species was added to the cumulative site list. Of these, eight were classed as Local, and one as Notable B. The highlight of the season was undoubtedly the discovery of Bilberry Pug on the site. A total of 36 visits were made during 2007. Referring to the map, my intentions are to trap at each location five times. I will then be able to ascertain which area of Mereworth is, moth wise, the most species rich. After consulting my database, another 16 visits would complete my studies of the site.

Tony Steele

Five visits were undertaken during July, with the first being on the 1st. Both traps were set up under the tree canopy, with ideal conditions, cloudy and warm. First at the actinic were Small Angle Shades, Brown Silver-line, Buff Ermine, Small Fan-footed Wave, Marbled White Spot and Common Emerald. Early arrivals at the MV included the previous plus Rosy Footman, Mottled Beauty and Bee Moth. At the nights end the actinic had 26 species, and the MV 30. Others included Clouded Border, Large Emerald, Green Silver-lines and Small Yellow Wave. My next visit, July 8th, was rather memorable. Trapping started at 2155, and by the end, at 0005, the actinic had thirty three species and the MV twenty six. What made the evening memorable was the arrival, just before the traps were switched off, of a single example of the Bilberry Pug. This is a very scarce resident in Kent, with only one other known location. There was no Bilberry where the traps were situated.

With the discovery of Bilberry Pug I returned two days later, on the 10th, to the large area of Bilberry found earlier in the year. Although there was a clear sky, it was still mild. Moths started arriving almost immediately with Riband Wave, Small Fan-footed Wave, Buff Arches, Plain Wave, Common Lutestring and Peach Blossom. Then, approximately half way through the evening, a Bilberry Pug flew into the actinic trap, and a short while later, another one. Interestingly, none came to the MV, despite being set up amongst its foodplant. Other species for the night included Peacock Moth, Tawny Barred Angle, Scorched Wing, Fan-foot, Little Emerald and Swallow-tailed Moth.

Encouraged by the Bilberry Pug discovery, I returned on the 16th and set up the traps a short distance away from original site. First arrivals were Green-silver Lines, Waved Carpet, Buff Footman, Satin Lutestring, Common Emerald and Small Yellow Wave. As the evening progressed Rosy Footman, Poplar Lutestring, Mottled Beauty. Brindled Green, Early Thorn and True Lover's Knot arrived, but alas, no more Bilberry Pug's. After a family holiday, my final visit for July was on the 30th, in an area last trapped September 2006. The evening got underway at 2130, and ended at 2330, with twenty six species being recorded at the actinic, and twenty two at the MV. Some of the species noted were Small Phoenix, Iron Prominent, Snout, Birch Mocha, Triple-spotted Pug and Ruby Tiger.

Three visits were carried out during August, with the first on the 5th, and which proved to be the most productive of the season. Although there was no cloud cover, ambient temperature was very high. The actinic was set up on a trackway under the trees, and the MV situated on open heathland. Moths came thick and fast, starting at the actinic with True Lover's Knot, Narrow-winged Pug, Chocolate Tip, Beautiful Snout, Small Phoenix and Small Fan-footed Wave. First arrivals at the MV were Beautiful Yellow Underwing, Flame Shoulder, Rosy Footman, Triple-spotted Pug, Dun-bar and Straw Dot. I was kept very busy going between the two traps. When I packed up at 2330, the actinic had 41 species and the MV 40. Some of the more interesting were Least Carpet, Waved Carpet, Pine Hawk-moth and Poplar Kitten. Several micro's were noted including Acler-is aspersana, Teleiodes luculella, Conobathra repandana and Argyrotaenia ijungiana.

Visit number two for August was on the 16th, and with a clear sky and low temperatures, it was not good for mothing. The actinic attracted just eight species and the MV only six, most of them singletons, which included Swallow Prominent, Black Arches, Yellow-barred Brindle and Scarce Footman. When I returned on 21st August conditions were perfect. It was cloudy, a few light showers and mild. First to show at the actinic was Large Yellow Underwing followed by Green Carpet, Lesser Swallow Prominent, Common Carpet and Iron Prominent. First arrivals at the MV were Peacock Moth, Mother of Pearl, Common Lutestring and Double-striped Pug. Other species for the night included Pebble Hook-tip, Clouded Silver, Common Lutestring and Snout. Many micro's were seen, some of which were Agonopteryx aistromeriana, Ypsolopha parenthesella, Monopis weaverella and Pandemis corylana.

Tony Steele

The last visit during March was on the 28th, and conditions were perfect, cloudy and mild. Trapping commenced at l95Ohrs, and almost immediately moths started arriving with the first, at the actinic, Small Quaker, Early Grey, Twin-spotted Quaker, Chestnut and Common Quaker. First arrivals at the MV were slightly different, being Chestnut, Early Tooth-striped, Common Quaker, Engrailed, Satellite and the micro Diurnea fagella. The evening ended at 2l5Ohrs with 120 moths of 18 species. Common Quaker was the most numerous with 37 recorded. The most noteworthy record of the night was two examples of Dotted Chestnut, a Notable B species. Interestingly, none were recorded in 2006.

Three visits were made during April, on the 10th, 17th and 23rd. On the night of the 10th all the usual early species were recorded including Brindled Pug, Common Quaker, Clouded Drab, Lunar Marbled Brown, Dark Chestnut, Hebrew Character, Satellite and Nut-tree Tussock. It also provided another new site record, Micropterix caithella. The visit on the 17th was a rather quiet night with just 45 moths of ten species. The only moth of note was a fairly early example of Adela reaumurella, one of the "longhorn" moths. The next visit, on the 23rd, was slightly better. Fifty one moths of 19 species were recorded, including Early Grey, Pale Tussock, Grey Birch, Peacock Moth, Pine Beauty, Pale Prominent, Narrow-winged Pug and Purple Thorn. Interestingly, many of the species recorded during April were just singletons.

The first session in May was on the 5th, and conditions were not ideal with a clear sky and a low temperature. The traps were turned on at 2lOOhrs, and when switched off at 2300hrs a meagre 16 moths of nine species were recorded. Once again most were singletons including Grey Birch, Green Carpet, Clouded Border and White-pinion Spotted. My next visit, on May 12th was most interesting. Arrived to find that 3 separate military units were on site so had a slight problem on where to place the traps so that they did not interfere with manoeuvres, or affect the troops night vision. The actinic, not being a bright light was sited beside a road, but the MV had to be placed deep inside a wooded area. At the nights end, 2315hrs, the actinic had just eleven moths of 5 species, but the MV fared much better with 37 moths of sixteen species. Yet again many were singletons, such as Common wave, Yellow-barred Brindle, Nut-tree Tussock and Flame Shoulder.

The final visit for May was on the 25th. Being cloudy and mild conditions were ideal. Site chosen for trapping was where I found the large area of Bilberry. First arrivals at the actinic was Treble Lines, Little Emerald, Birch Mocha and Brown-silver Line, then the first of several Beautiful Snout, a Bilberry feeder. Early arrivals at the MV was Green Carpet, Gold Swift, Marbled Minor and Common Marbled Carpet. The evening ended at 2315hrs. Although 29 species were recorded, there was only 87 individual moths. Others included Common Swift, Satin Lutestring, Square Spot, Pale Tussock, Foxglove Pug, Peach Blossom and Pale Oak Beauty.

June 4th saw the next visit, and being nice and mild, I was hoping for a good catch. Trapping commenced at 2150, and ended around midnight. The actinic was the most productive with 20 species, whilst the MV had 14. Total moths for the two traps was only 77. Yet again many were just singletons, such as Garden Pebble, White Ermine, Grey Pine Carpet, Foxglove Pug and Pebble Hook-tip. There was low numbers again on the next visit, June 10th, but at least a few "goodies" showed including Waved Carpet, Peacock Moth and Beautiful Snout. Thankfully the catch had improved by the next visit on the 18th June. This time the actinic had 105 moths of 28 species, and the MV 84 moths of 27 species. The most numerous were Rosy Footman, Satin Lutestring and Brindled White-spot, which were recorded by the dozen! The last visit for June was on the 26th. As I set up the cloud cover began to fade, and temperatures started to fall, so only twenty eight moths of 18 species were seen at the actinic, and a very meagre eighteen moths of nine species at the MV.

Tony Steele

An opportunity arose, at short notice, where I was able to spend a couple of hours trapping on this MOD training ground. Reported in at the Guardhouse, then drove to the assigned area where no live firing was taking place during the night. After a quick walk round, decided to site the actinic out on the shingle and the MV on some rough grassland. The traps were separated by a small copse of Oak, Ash and Gorse. Not being far from the coast, I was hoping for some interesting migrants.

The traps were switched on at 2000hrs, and as with my last outing, nothing appeared for some time. First at the actinic was the Pyrale Agriphila inquinatella, and this was followed by Snout, Light Emerald, Square-spot Rustic and another Pyrale, Udea ferrugalis. First at the MV was a Tortricoid, Epiphyas postvittana, then Square-spot Rustic, Snout, Dusky Thorn and Feathered Gothic. Several "micro's" were potted during the evening for identifying upon returning home. These later proved to be Lobesia abscisana, Teleiodes vulgella and Agonopterix nervosa.

As the evening progressed Flame Shoulder arrived, together with Large Yellow Underwing, Oak Hook-tip, Small Dusty Wave, Lesser Yellow Underwing and the only migrants of the night, 2 examples of White-point. It was an experience trapping here, with the sound of the sea in one direction and gunfire in another. The evening ended all to quick though, as at 2200hrs I was contacted by the Range Warden stating that the troops had finished their night firing early and were departing, and could I finish as well. Not wanting to abuse their hospitality, I therefore agreed. Total species for each trap was, Actinic 17 and MV 12.

Tony Steele

This was yet to be another eventful night, in more ways than one. Several days prior, I had studied a large scale map of the forest and picked out a trapping site, one that I had not used before. Arrived at the site and unlocked the gate, as I approached what should have been the chosen location it did not look right, so out came the GPS and I discovered that I had entered by the wrong gate. Quickly retraced my steps and arrived at correct one to find that the lock had yet again been changed, to one that I could not open. As the light was fading, I hastily drove to previous entrance and quickly found a fairly suitable site for trapping.

The two traps were set up in record time, and switched on at 2005. For about the first forty five minutes no moths were to be seen, which made me wonder if it was worth the journey. Then they started to arrive. First at the actin-ic was Snout, Large Yellow Underwing, the micro Epinotia ramella, Green Carpet and Common Marbled Carpet. First at the MV was Light Emerald, Double-striped Pug, Snout and Large Yellow Underwing. Next at the actin-ic was two rather interesting species, namely Rosy and Buff Footman, which were approximately a month past their normal flight season. Could this be another sign of global warming? The MV also had a species outside its normal flight time, a Tawny-barred Angle.

When I packed up at 2235, Twenty one species were recorded at the actinic, with eighteen at the MV. Some fascinating micro's were seen, including Ypsolopha scabrella, Tinea sem-ifulvella, Cydia splendana and Archips podana. It was after I had returned home and was looking at our web site, I read that David Gardner was holding a public event at another part of Hemsted while I was there. That will teach me to check the Branch Diary more often.

Tony Steele

This was yet to be another eventful night, in more ways than one. Several days prior, I had studied a large scale map of the forest and picked out a trapping site, one that I had not used before. Arrived at the site and unlocked the gate, as I approached what should have been the chosen location it did not look right, so out came the GPS and I discovered that I had entered by the wrong gate. Quickly retraced my steps and arrived at correct one to find that the lock had yet again been changed, to one that I could not open. As the light was fading, I hastily drove to previous entrance and quickly found a fairly suitable site for trapping.

The two traps were set up in record time, and switched on at 2005. For about the first forty five minutes no moths were to be seen, which made me wonder if it was worth the journey. Then they started to arrive. First at the actin-ic was Snout, Large Yellow Underwing, the micro Epinotia ramella, Green Carpet and Common Marbled Carpet. First at the MV was Light Emerald, Double-striped Pug, Snout and Large Yellow Underwing. Next at the actin-ic was two rather interesting species, namely Rosy and Buff Footman, which were approximately a month past their normal flight season. Could this be another sign of global warming? The MV also had a species outside its normal flight time, a Tawny-barred Angle.

When I packed up at 2235, Twenty one species were recorded at the actinic, with eighteen at the MV. Some fascinating micro's were seen, including Ypsolopha scabrella, Tinea sem-ifulvella, Cydia splendana and Archips podana. It was after I had returned home and was looking at our web site, I read that David Gardner was holding a public event at another part of Hemsted while I was there. That will teach me to check the Branch Diary more often.

Tony Steele

Following my rather eventful excursion at King's Wood, I decided to pay a visit to another old haunt, Bedgebury Forest. Drove past the Forestry Commission offices to a known trapping site, and discovered that it is now a car-park! Undeterred, went further into the forest to another old site to find that the road I wanted was barred and locked with a non standard Forestry Commission lock, of which I did not have the combination. It was by now getting dark, so returned to the FC offices and set up the traps to the rear of them.

The actinic was placed on grassland near some young deciduous trees, whilst the MV was on a trackway going through a conifer nursery. Traps were switched on at 2030, and first to arrive at the actinic was Brimstone Moth, Straw Dot, Angle Shades, Green Carpet and Yellow Shell. Early arrivals at the MV was also Straw Dot and Green Carpet, followed by Square-spot Rustic, Light Emerald and Flame Shoulder. Upon returning to the actinic I was surprised by a rather large rat calmly crossing the path near to the trap.

With the mild temperature, moths were arriving constantly, including Double-striped Pug, Snout, Birch Mocha, Dusky Thorn, Feathered Gothic and Maiden's Blush. And then the Hornets started, loads of them. There were just too many for my usual way of dealing with them, which was to turn the traps off for a short while till they dispersed, so all I could do was to "pot" each one and release at the nights end. When the traps were turned off at 2230, 29 species were recorded at the actinic and 27 at the MV. Just before leaving, an inspection was made at the sodium lights outside the FC offices and these yielded 11 species, including Brown China-mark and Garden Carpet, which neither trap attracted. Regarding the Hornets, total for the two traps was 19 of the blighters.

Tony Steele

As there was some military activity planned in my favourite trapping location, Mereworth Woods, I decided to pay a visit to King's Wood near Challock. On checking my records, found that my last visit was some time ago, August 2004, so a nights trapping here was long overdue. Arrived to find that the gate I normally used for access was now sealed up by an earth bank, and that left me with a problem, how do I get in? There is a public car park just along the road, but this was totally unsuitable for access or trapping. I then remembered that there was another point of entry, which was via the gate for the Forestry Commission Offices, luckily the code for the combination lock came with my permit.

Now I was in, but the delay had prevented me from venturing deep into the wood, so a suitable site was quickly found in the north west corner, just as darkness began. Both traps were tunred on at 20:40 under a clear sky and a mild temperature. First arrivals at the actinic was Snout, Straw Dot, Flame Shoulder, Light Emerald and Square-spot Rustic. These were followed by Yellow Shell, Small Rivulet, Mother of Pearl and Clay Triple-lines. Among the first to arrive at the MV were Brimstone Moth, Common Wainscot, Large Yellow Underwing and Green Carpet, which were followed by Setaceous Hebrew Character, Angle Shades, Scorched Carpet and Common Carpet. As the night progressed, the temperature began to fall, so by the time the traps were turned off at 22:40 it was quite cool.

Several "micro's" were brought home to identify, which proved to be Ypsolopha parenthesella, Apotomis betuletana, Epinotia ramella and Pandemis corylana. The totals for the night, considering the rather cool conditions at the end, was 97 moths of 33 species.

Tony Steele

This annual event was held on Saturday 11th August. After looking through all the back issues of the kent Moth Report, I decided that it would be more profitable, record wise, to trap at a completely new location, but where in Kent? Out came the Ordnance Survey maps, and after much searching one site in particular was found which had virtually no moth records, Hythe Ranges. Being a member of the Cinque Port Training Area Conservation Group, a meeting was arranged with David Johnson, the Range Officer, to organize access, bearing in mind that this is a live firing range. Luckily, on the night of 11th August, no firing was scheduled so it was ok for trapping.

NMN soon arrived and I met David Johnson at the main gate to be admitted. Because this is a high security site, I was locked in, with the promise that he would return and be let out at the end of the evening! The traps were set up and switched on at 21:15, with the twin 40 watt actinic being out on the shingle and the 125 watt MV on the edge of a patch of grass near some shrubs. First to arrive, at the actinic, was the rare Pyrale Synaphe punctalis, and this was followed by a Tree-lichen Beauty. Next cam Shuttle-shaped Dart, Yellow Sheel, Brimstone Moth, and another rare Pyrale Oncocera semirubella. First arrivals at the MV were Silver Y, Pretty Chalk Carpet, Brimstone Moth, Flame Shoulder, Riband Wave and Shaded Broad-bar.

With the traps set some 250 feet apart, I was kept busy visiting each in turn. As the night got darker, the actinic trap attracted more and more species including, Maple Prominent, Oak Eggar, Dingy and Pigmy Footman, Peacock Moth, White-line Dart and Sand Dart. For some reason, the MV did not fare very well, some of the species recorded at this trap were Dingy Footman, Dusky Sallow, Purple Bar, Coxcomb Prominent and Small White Wave. The totals for each trap when turned off at 23:45, were for the actinic, 58 moths of 29 species, and for the MV, 35 moths of 18 species. In all it was a most successful nights trapining, with many rarities being recorded. Thanks must go to David Johnson for granting me access, and for letting me out at the end!

11th August 2007. Hythe Ranges. Trap Site: TR1457233724. Clear sky, mild then cool.

Trapped 21:45 - 23:45. 2X40W Actinic Skinner Trap

11th August 2007. Hythe Ranges. Trap Site: TR1457233785. Clear sky, mild then cool.

Trapped 21:45 - 23:45. 125W MV Skinner Trap

As a member of the Cinque Ports Tranining Area Conservation Group, and being in the area, a daytime visit was made to Hythe Ranges on June 22nd. After reporting to the Range Office for a safety briefing I set off to explorer the eastern end of the ranges where no live firing was taking place. Tapping a hedgerow an example of the Riband Wave flew out, and slightly further along a Bee Moth. Upon reaching an area of shingle, several examples of the Notable B pyrale Synaphe punctalis were noted. Continuing on my way, Yellow Shell, Chrysoteuchia Culmella and Clepsis spectrana were recorded. As I made my way back more S.punctalis were seen, alond with singletons of Cinnabar Moth and the tortrix Pandemis corylana.

Tony Steele

Around a dozen members meet in the car park at Trosley on Saturday 5th May. After the usual chit-chat we set off under overcast skies and cool temperature, not ideal butterfly conditions. As we made our way through woodland, an example of the micro-moth Nematopogon swammerdamella was netted and shown. Entering the open grassland, micro-moths Syndemis masculella and Adela reaumurella were noted, along with the purale Pyrausta purpuralis. It has been several years since I last visited this site, and I was absolutely stunned on how overgrown the open areas had become. Other moths recorded were Crambus lathoniellus and Argyresthia trifasciata.

Tony Steele

On April 7th, a much belated night time outing was made to our White Hill Reserve, to try for the Barred Tooth-striped, a Notable A species. Not having visited the site for some time, I was suprised to find a new barrier had been installed in front of the parking area in Fackenden Lane. Undeterred, I parked on the roadside and setup the twin actinic Skinner trap. First to arrive was Satellite, followed by Early Thorn, March Moth, Common Quaker and Streamer. Several "walk rounds" were carried out by torchlight inspecting the Wild Privet bushes, the foodplant of Barred Tooth-Striped, but alas none were seen, or trapped. Total number of moths for the night was a meagre seventeen, of 10 species.

Tony Steele

The first visit of the year was on 15th January. Although cloudy, temperatures were low and the session provided just three moths of 2 species, a single Mottled Umber and two Spring Usher, the last being a new record for the site. February 17th saw the next outing and in 2 hours of trapping, from 1745hrs to 1945hrs, 11 moths of four species were recorded, Chestnut, March Moth, Spring Usher and Pale Brindled Beauty, the last being new to the site.

Visit number three was on March 7th. Because of unexpected military activity I was unable to trap at the location within the wood as planned, therefore another site that was free of soldiers was quickly found. Trapping commenced at 1825hrs and finished at 2030hrs. Between the two traps, 52 moths of 12 speices were recorded, of which some being Brindled Pug, Satellite, Common Quaker, Small Quaker, Hebrew Character, Oak Beauty, Early Grey, Dotted Border and Small Brindled Beauty, the last being new to the site list.

The fourth and latest visit was on March 10th, and so far the most rewarding with 109 moths of fourteen species recorded. First to arrive was Chestnut which was followed by March Moth and Yellow Horned (39 between the two traps). Next was Common Quaker, Twin-spotted Quaker, Satellite and Dotted Chestnut, a Notable B species. Others were Clouded Drab, Small Quaker, Engrailed, Pale Brindeled Beauty and another new to site Gret Shoulder-knot. Serveral Diurnea fagella were also recorded, of both forms, nominate and melanic, and a single example of the Tortrix moth Acleris cristana, a Local species.

The 2007 season ar Mereworth has got off to a good start, with 5 new species already being recorded, and one of those being classed as Local. A couple of day time visits have been made, to find alternative trapping sites. One area in particular looks most promising consisting of widely spaced Oaks with and under-storey of Bilberry, which could be a locality for two Notable B species, Little Thorn and Bilberry Pug. Watch this space!

Tony Steele

2006

The year 2006 proved quite an exceptional one for moth recording at Mereworth. The first visits was undertaken on March 31st, with the final one being 2nd Decemeber. In total, 29 trapping nights were spent at various locations throughout the complex, which yielded 67 new species for the site. Of theses, 16 are listed as Local and 3 as Notable B. The total number of species recorded now stands at 350, which includes 57 Local, 13 Notable B, but still only 1 Notable A.

Several of the sites rarer species had a most remarkable season, with what can only be described as a population explosion. Numbers of the Satin Lutestring had more than doubled, as did numbers of the secretive Waved Carpet, a BAP species. Other large increases noted were of Oak Lutestring, Brindled White-spot, Peacock Moth and Rosy Footman.

On the downside, the Great Oak Beauty, last recorded here in 2003, failed to put in an appearance again. The adults prefer mature Oaks, which are numerous on the site. As these threes are situated where there is continual ween-end military activity, and therefore trapping cannot be carried out, this species could just be overlooked. During the 2007 season, some midweek trapping will be undertaken to discover if, hopefully, it still exists on the site.

At various locations, Wood Ants are becoming most troublesome, and a few times traps have had to be moved when the ants had invaded them. The site also supports healthy populations of the large and fierce looking Hornet. I found that the best way to deal with them was to turn the traps off for several minutes, thus allowing the Hornets to disperse.

Tony Steele

On June 3rd a field trip was held on our excellent reserve at White Hill, during which some 10 species of moth were recorded. Several examples of the deep purple and gold coloured pyrale Pyrausta aurata, were seen feeding on Knapweed, and a few Speckled Yellow's and Green Carpet's flew up as we strolled around the site admiring the butterflies. Mother Shipton and Burnet Companion, both day flying, were also noted. Other species seen, which have no English name were, Elachista argentella, Celypha lacunana, Epiblema cynosbatella, Crambus lathoniellus and Scoparia ambigualis.

Tony Steele

During the season, a visit was made on June 3rd, to this Kent County Council site with fellow moth-er Dave Macklin. Situated above Lullingstone Country Park, the wood is deciduous and access is through a locked disused car park. Trapping commenced at 2145hrs, and although conditions were clear and cool, during two hours of trapping the Actinic light had 24 species whilst the MV light attracted 21 species. Due to the low temperatures, most were singletons such as Maiden's Blush, Barred Hook-tip, Small White Wave, Double-striped Pug, Iron Prominent and Straw Dot. One of my favourite micro's was noted, Ancylis mitterbacheriana, a name that just rolls off the tounge! At one stage the local police turned up, and when they saw that we had unlocked the gate to enter the site, they proceeded on their way.

Tony Steele

A return visit was made on August 8th, primarily to see the Chalkhill Blue butterfly, which I did by the hundreds, plus 9 other specices of butterfly. As I wandered around the reserve many Six-spot Burnet's were seen feeding on Scabious. Several examples of the pyrale, Pyrausta purpuralis were noted. Also seen were Common Carpet, and the regular migrant, Silver Y.

Tony Steele

For reports from 2002 - 2005 please use the links below: