December Comes Early.

 On the last decent night for some time for the moth trap on Tuesday there were very few moths the following morning, however what was lacking in quantity was made up for in quality.

I haven't trapped this late in the season too often before so it shouldn't be too much of a surprise to get some new moths for the garden, but about 20% of the catch were new moths with 4 new to me.

The most delightful moth was the December Moth. This is quite a common moth, especially more inland, and it was great to at last get one. Being a Winter moth it is covered in hairs to keep it warm.

The biggest problem I had on the Wednesday was trying to photograph the moths in the very dull conditions and a strong breeze. Eventually the light improved enough to get some reasonable results although by now the breeze was even stronger.

December Moth.

December Moth.

With a change of background, (the fence)!!

My favourite moth of the night however was a fabulous Sprawler. A superbly marked moth and a great addition to my garden catches,

Sprawler.

Sprawler.

Oak Rustic. 

A recent colonist that seems to be building in numbers locally.

Dark Chestnut. 

Thought to be a Dark Chestnut, rather than a Chestnut by the County recorder.