People across the Highlands are being encouraged to discover the hidden world of moths this summer by borrowing a free moth trap from their local High Life Highland library.
The initiative, led by High Life Highland Countryside Rangers, aims to connect more people with local wildlife while contributing valuable records that help build a better understanding of species across the region.
The project has already inspired one young wildlife enthusiast in Lochaber, whose first experience with a moth trap revealed an astonishing variety of nocturnal visitors in her own garden.
High Life Highland Countryside Ranger Eilidh Ann Phillips recently visited Ardnamurchan Library to lead a moth workshop for local residents and primary school pupils, introducing them to the important role moths play in Highland ecosystems.
One of those taking part was Cara, who borrowed a moth trap from her local Green Library after the session and put her new knowledge into practice at home.
Over just two nights, Cara recorded an impressive collection of species, including the spectacular Poplar Hawk Moth, the colourful Elephant Hawk Moth and the delicate Light Emerald, along with Drinker moths, Silver ground Carpet, Green Carpet and Brimstone Moths.
Eilidh Ann Phillips said:
“For a first time moth recorder, it was an impressive discovery and a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that can be found in even the most ordinary garden.”
Cara’s mum, Victoria Balnaves Aitken, said:
“It was so exciting waking up each morning to see what might have visited our garden overnight.
“I couldn’t believe the variety of species we discovered, many of which I would never normally see without using a moth trap.”
Although often overlooked, moths are among the Highlands’ most important insects, pollinating plants during the night while providing food for birds, bats and many other species.
By encouraging people to identify and record what they find, the project is helping build a clearer picture of moth populations across the Highlands while encouraging more people to connect with nature.
Moth traps are now available to borrow free of charge from all ten of High Life Highland’s Green Libraries, stretching from Wick and Dingwall to Ardnamurchan.
The specially designed traps use light to gently attract moths overnight, allowing them to be identified before being safely released the following morning.
Eilidh Ann Phillips added:
“Moths are one of our most overlooked groups of wildlife, yet they are incredibly important and amazingly diverse.
“Cara’s experience shows just how much can be discovered in a single garden.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer moth traps through our Green Libraries and hope more people, especially young people and families, will get involved.
“It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature, learn new skills and contribute to wildlife recording in the Highlands.”
For anyone curious about the wildlife that appears after dark, a borrowed moth trap could reveal an extraordinary world hiding just outside the back door.
