First count for moths at Stormont Estate
29 June 2013 - 9:00am - 11:00am
Small elephant hawk moth (c) Jon Hawkins
Event details
29 June 2013 - 9:00am - 11:00am
Discover and record moths for the first time at Stormont Estate
Experts from the leading local wildlife charity will be on hand to identify the fascinating variety of moths and butterflies, answer questions and reveal more of Stormont Estate’s hidden gems.
Stormont Estate has a wide variety of woodland and grassland habitats tucked away in the heart of the city and is an oasis for moths such as white ermine, clouded drab, small elephant hawk moth and garden tiger. Moth traps will be set up overnight to capture nocturnal species which will be released at the event for everyone to view.
Andy Crory, Nature Reserves Manager with Ulster Wildlife said: “This will be the first time that the moths at Stormont Estate will have been recorded, so there is an air of excitement around what we might discover there.
“If you’re a moth enthusiast like me, or just want to get a closer look, our event provides the perfect chance to experience these elusive aerial insects.
Moths are a key indicator of the health of the natural environment and can give conservationists an idea of how well it is faring overall. Habitat loss, light pollution and a changing climate, together with the prolonged winter weather, has resulted in a disastrous spring and early summer for our moths so far.
Andy continued: “The late frosts and snow will have had a dramatic effect on moths, which in turn affects the wider food chain with less food, in the form of caterpillars, for birds to rear their young. By working to secure a future rich in wildlife, we hope to protect the habitat for moths and hopefully inspire people about the value of nature on our doorstep.”
The moth event at Stormont will take place from 9am to 11am on Saturday 29th June. The event is free but booking is essential – call 028 4483 0282 or email events@ulsterwildlife.org Suitable outdoor clothing and stout footwear are recommended.