Thursday September 13

Last night was largely moonless and clear, but I put the trap out anyway.

This morning I was not surprised to find only 19 moths of 10 species in and around the trap, but there were a few interesting ones to talk about.

The star moth was a Small Blood-vein. Although this does not appear to be a scarce one, it was still a lifer for me. It's appearance was particularly surprising because the majority appear during the summer, with a smaller second generation emergence in September - so the books say.

Small Blood-vein

Also noteworthy were a second generation Light Emerald (about two-thirds the size of the first generation), and a Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing (the first since early August).

Light Emerald

Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing - from above and below

The rest comprised one Agriphila geniculea, two Garden Carpets, one Small Dusty Wave, six Large Yellow Underwings, one Lesser Yellow Underwing, two Square-spot Rustics, and three Centre-barred Sallows.

Earlier in the week I noticed a Small Dusty Wave on the garage door, and a Double-striped Pug in the bathroom.

Finally, Birmingham City Centre provided the surprising sight of at least five Angle Shades clinging to the outside of the Selfridge building. There was also an Agriphila geniculea, and a Square-spot Rustic. Presumably the eery blue light coming from beneath each blue disc cladding the exterior of the building attracts moths. My journey to work could become a lot more interesting.