Both are FFY for me, and it was very satisfying indeed to see the V-Moth for the third successive year. The site of the trap, at the back of the bungalow, is just a few metres away from a fruit cage containing a number of currant and gooseberry bushes. It seems reasonable to assume that this is a breeding ground, although I checked the bushes on several occasions earlier in the season for signs of larval activity and found none. I will search with more diligence next year!
These two apart, the trap attracted a modest selection of the usual seasonal suspects including Scallop Shell, Yellow-barred Brindle, Elephant and Poplar Hawk Moths, 4 Rosy Footmen, 3 Garden Tigers and a Shark, numerous Uncertain Rustics and only one Large Yellow Underwing!
Well done Chris. V-Moth - another one I've never seen.
ReplyDeleteI think that anyone who sees one is quite lucky Steve, the Butterfly Conservation report in 2013 on the state of the larger British moths said that they've declined by 99% in the past few decades. I consider myself privileged to have them here, possibly breeding too.
DeleteI think the LYU might be in a mid-summer lull as I had 90+ species at Parc Slip last week without a single one...
ReplyDeleteThat's amazing, Vaughn, to get none in what must have been pretty favourable conditions. Checking back on previous years' records though I find that LYU peaks in August when it's very abundant, from June through July it comes in dribs and drabs.
DeleteThis seems to be one of the few (only?) sites in South Wales where V-moth turns up regularly. Great to know it's still there.
ReplyDeleteI do my best to nurture it, George, my wife has refrained from pruning the currant bushes for the last two years but I shall have to give in to her before long, this year's crop has been dismal!
DeleteYou'll have to plant some more, Chris!
ReplyDeleteI had my first V Moth on Weds 12 July. I had the Robinson trap near the pine end of my bungalow, but was luck to have spotted it on the wall just outside my back door!
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