Sculthorpe

 Wednesday August 6

Butterfly Conservation, Norfolk Group had, for the first time ever, organised a moth trapping session at Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve. As we were unable to attend Thursday's usual meeting at Cley -Pam had an appointment to complete a Speed Awareness Course in Norwich - we decided to attend. David N met us in the car park, saying that he'd been asked by Paresh Shah - County moth recorder - whether we'd be attending. I'd  been expecting a morning where I was a part of the audience. Instead, I was recorder. I didn't mind at all. I've already been asked if I'll be at Foxley in September. 

We were seated under a purple awning, supplied with a drink , and David opened the six traps which had been placed overnight in varying parts of the reserve. One of them was inside the Beaver enclosure. We'd very much like to see these animals but apparently it's too boggy for us. There are now two adults and six young. They've raised two young every year they've been here.

The variety of moths was much as expected, no surprises. There's always that chance that there might be something good.  Best was a Gold Spot and a Red Underwing. The number of micros barely got into double figures. The intention was to inform the public. Nine of us stood around the trapping area, whilst the public walked along the path alongside. A good sample of the moths trapped was displayed on a nearby table. David did a very good job of greeting and directing the public whilst contining to open the traps. Mike Gasson, County Chair of Butterfly Conservation, breeds the stunning Oleander Hawkmoth and had brought along a newly emerged specimen, which was also on display.


 David also brought along an Archer's Dart, a coastal moth which had been trapped at Holme overnight.


 Neither of these photos were taken by me.

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