New Emperor Born This Morning

 

This female Emperor Moth emerged this morning from one of two cocoons which I have overwintered in my greenhouse.  I was hoping for a female so that 'assembling' a male or two might be on the cards, but sadly she has chosen to appear during very poor weather, and I can't imagine that there will be any males on the wing today.  Perhaps an opportunity will present itself later in the week.

There has been no trapping at Maenol so far this year, a combination of poor eyesight and arthritic hands (not to say inclement weather) has put me off the idea so far.  However, I had cataract removal surgery last week and it's possible that improved sight may encourage me to bring a trap or two out of hibernation in due course.  On the subject of moth traps, I have at least two which are surplus to any future requirements and I would happily pass them on to anyone who might make good use of them, whether an individual or an institution - a school, for example.  Suggestions would be welcome, I can post further details if there's any interest, they would be free to any worthy cause!

Moth at Saron

 I have started trapping again but nothing unusual so far. I did get this micro which I think is Mompha divisella (local). Apologies for the poor phot. It was very active. I have had this species here before. It is similar to M bradleyi which is uncommon.

Butterflies too...

 The loud buzzing of numerous hive bees nectaring at Trachystemon orientale caught my attention and, looking, there were two red admirals doing the same on 14th February.

Valentine`s night migrants

 The forecasted southerlies from North Africa prompted me to put out my actinic on 14th February and I was rewarded with a dozen moth species, including two migrants - a pristine bordered straw and 2 x rusty-dot pearls.

                                                             Above: bordered straw.

Euchromius ocellea

 Checking my trap on the 31st I found a solitary micro moth, and was able to identify it straight away as I had seen one recently on yet another FB page. Euchromius ocellea, an exciting migrant from, I believe, North Africa, a stunning little creature, and not often seen in my neck of the woods!

Carpatolechia decorella

 A belated post. Apologies. 

Following Sam’s email I trapped on January 28th and had quite a bundle of moths.  Sitting inside later I noticed a tiny moth on my arm, potted it, couldn’t find anything like it at all so posted on a FB Micro page, and it was thought to be Carpatolechia decorella, Sam has kindly confirmed this and also confirmed that it is a Carmarthenshire First! Good start to the year.

Pearly Underwing in Burry Port

 Ian's email prompted me to put the trap out last night. This morning it contained just one moth, a large noctuid.

My first Pearly Underwing!