Moths

Moth trapping in late autumn tends to produce low numbers of individuals, but a high proportion of the species are either very attractive or uncommon. In the last week we've had the rather gorgeous Merveille Du Jour, with its wings patterned in soft green, black and white, as well as our first ever Grey Shoulder-knot, a  southern species which is spreading north (see extras). These are both woodland species whose caterpillars feed on oak.

But, although it is the commonest species of the trio, I decided to give pride of place to a December Moth, a species that's actually on the wing from late October to December. It frequents woodland, hedgerows and mature gardens and occurs over much of the country. I just love it's subtle colours, furry body and the magnificent pectinate antennae of the males. I think it looks almost cuddly!