The Herald Moths

These stunning moths were found in the Batch valley, they are Herald moths (Scoliopteryx libatrix) and although are common throughout England, they are rarely picked up in moth traps. It is one of the few nocturnal moths that overwinters in the moth stage, often in old buildings and barns.

This beautiful red brown moth is quite distinctive in shape and markings and is often one of the first and last species to be seen each year. Its bright fore wings are always on view to its predators and so it camouflages itself among dead leaves during the day.