Rare Moth Discovery in Telford Park
Conservationists have reported the sighting of a rare moth species at a park in Telford. The West Midlands Butterfly and Moth Society expressed their enthusiasm regarding the discovery of the six-belted clearwing moth, which had not previously been documented in the town.
They described the moth as "tiny and easily overlooked" and expressed hope that additional specimens might be located in other areas around Telford.
Habitat and Potential Locations
The six-belted clearwing moth is known to lay its eggs on Bird's-foot trefoil, a plant commonly found on many of Telford's former brownfield sites. One such location is Rough Park, a nature reserve where the moth was observed.
The conservation group has identified two additional potential sites within the region where the moth may also be present.
Survey Methods and Recording Efforts
The moth was discovered by the newly established Telford & Wrekin Butterfly and Moth Recording Group. This group utilized pheromone lures, which imitate the scent emitted by female moths to attract males, as part of their search efforts.
The West Midlands Butterfly and Moth Society noted that Telford is currently under-recorded for moth sightings but is recognized for hosting important populations of regionally significant butterflies and moths, including the green hairstreak, dingy skipper, and six-spot burnet.
They also emphasized their intention to promote the spread of Bird's-foot trefoil to support the populations of various butterflies and moths.
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and Further Reading
- The marsh plant which could boost a rare butterfly
- Butterfly count at 14-year low - conservationist
- Bid to revive fortunes of rare butterfly
