August 2013

 Nikon D2X + 200mm macro,  flash, ISO 100 tripod.

As we head towards the latter part of August there are still many species of moth about and in fresh condition. The Garden Tiger and Swallow-tailed Moth are two of the most colourful species found during the summer months. I have discovered both adults and larvae on many occasions, but never get tired photographing them!

Swallow-tailed Moth Ourapteryx sambucaria

Adults of this species are butterfly-like in appearance and named after the small projections on the apex of the hind wings. The bright lemon-yellow colour so distinctive of fresh specimens fades relatively quickly. The adults are conspicuous and found frequently in a variety of habitats, particularly woodland rides, bogs and gardens, but never abundantly. Care should be exercised when approaching this species. The moth has a skittish nature and often flies at the least sign of disturbance. The larvae can be found from August to May of the following year on ivy and various other species of trees and shrubs.

Garden Tiger Arctia caja

This is a very colourful, species. The forewings are dark chocolate brown with ochreous white streaks and patches, which are variable in size and shape. The hindwings are an orange-red colour with a series of deep blue-centered, black spots. The scarlet hindwings are a distinctive feature of this species, which it readily displays when disturbed. This was once a common moth found throughout the British Isles, it seems to have declined in many places in the last few years. The larvae, which are commonly referred to as ‘woolly bears’ or ‘granny greybeards’, are often seen by children wandering across paths and roads in search of a suitable pupation site.

Adult photographed in normal resting posture among foliage.

 Nikon D3X + 200mm macro,  fill-flash, ISO 100 tripod.

 

 Adult showing threat posture when threatened or disturbed.

Nikon D3X + 200mm macro,  fill-flash, ISO 100 tripod.

 

Garden Carpet Xanthorhoe fluctuata

This is a common species frequently seen in gardens throughout most of the summer. Adults are whitish grey in colour and rest among foliage or on walls and fences. I frequently find this species in my garden throughout the summer months.

I photographed this adult resting among foliage at the bottom of my garden.

 Nikon D3X + 200mm macro,  fill-flash, ISO 100 tripod.