The Lyons Share

Look at this unlikely line-up! Despite last night's weather, there were around 10 species in the moth trap at Woods Mill last night. At this time of year, there are a whole suite of moths with yellow/orange markings, perfect camouflage to hide against the yellowing leaves of autumn. September moths are something special, a welcome break to the boring brown underwings and rustics of August. It also reminds me of the first moth trap I ever ran, it was on my school roof way back in September 1990. It was so cold at Woods Mill this morning, I was able to arrange the moths (with enough time for just one photo!) on a yellowing dock leaf. So, from left to right the above suspects are: Frosted Orange, Pink-barred Sallow, Sallow, Barred Sallow and Beaded Chestnut. So who's guilty? It's the Barred Sallow, I told him he wasn't allowed in the moth trap again.