Moths are becoming the new stars in the world of pollinators. Charles Waters, a moth expert, has noticed a growing interest in moths, especially among the younger generation. He believes that people are starting to appreciate the beauty and diversity of moths, as well as their crucial role as pollinators.
Unlike butterflies, moths are often overlooked because they are mostly active at night. However, there are actually 2,500 moth species in the UK, compared to only 59 butterfly species. Moths play a significant role in pollination due to their large numbers.
At the Moonshadow moth garden in Hampton Court Palace, visitors can see a variety of plants that cater to moths and butterflies. Some of the British native wildflowers that moths love include wild strawberry, scabious, and knapweed. The garden also features a buddleia bush that attracts both butterflies and moths, as well as “messy” areas with long grass and wood for moths to rest on.
Walker, the secretary of the Sussex Moth Group, has observed a rapid increase in the number of members, including younger individuals. Despite some negative perceptions of moths, such as clothes moths and box tree moths, the vast majority of moth species are harmless and play a vital role in the ecosystem.
To showcase the diversity of moths, Waters set up a nonlethal moth trap at Hampton Court Palace and caught 400 moths, including elephant hawk-moths and buff-tip moths. He emphasized the importance of creating moth-friendly habitats in gardens to help reverse the decline in moth populations, which is largely due to habitat loss from intensive farming and development.
Research has shown that moth populations in the UK have decreased by 33% since 1968, with some species experiencing steep declines. Conservation efforts are beginning to show positive results for certain moth species, but more action is needed to protect these important pollinators.
Waters highlighted the significance of trees for moths, particularly oak trees, which have been a staple in the UK for centuries. By planting a variety of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers in gardens, people can create habitats that support a diverse range of moth species.
In addition to their role as pollinators, moths are also essential food sources for birds. Protecting moth populations is crucial for maintaining the balance of ecosystems and ensuring the survival of bird species that rely on moths for food.
Overall, the rise of interest in moths among conservationists and nature enthusiasts is a positive trend that could lead to greater awareness and efforts to protect these fascinating insects and their habitats. By taking simple steps to make our gardens more moth-friendly, we can contribute to the conservation of these important pollinators and help preserve biodiversity for future generations.
