Moths seem to have a bit of a bad reputation: to some they are ill omens or something scary, to others they are dull in comparison to our well-loved butterflies. Even the phrase: ‘like a moth to the flame’ suggests someone is so bewitched by something that they'll follow it to their demise. But moths are an essential part of an ecosystem, important food sources for species like birds and bats. They're also prolific pollinators while on their search for nectar, which autumn-flying moths find in overripe berries or late blooming flowers like ivy. And with such intricate markings, acting as their own unique brand of woodland camouflage, for me, they're far from dull.
My first meeting with an Angle Shades moth was nearly a non-encounter. Strolling under clear October skies,…
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The Simple Things (Digital) - 1 Issue, October 2023