Death's-head hawk-moth by Les HillButterfly Conservation
Amazing moths
Did you know the Death’s-head Hawk-moth can squeak like a mouse? That the Mother Shipton moth has a witch’s face on its wing or that the caterpillar of the Puss Moth can shoot acid out of its bottom? Here at Butterfly Conservation we naturally think moths are fasciniating.
Humming-bird Hawk-moth Credit Bob Eade by Bob EadeButterfly Conservation
Thousands of species
Although many people overlook them, moths are numerous and widespread, with over 2,500 species in Britain living in a wide range of habitats. They are a major part of our biodiversity and play vital roles in the ecosystem, affecting many other types of wildlife.
Plumed Prominent moth by Patrick ClementButterfly Conservation
In decline
Sadly, moths are declining in the UK. Our latest report published in 2021 has found that Britain's larger moths have declined by a third in the last 50 years. The situation is particularly bad in southern Britain. where moth numbers are down by 40%.
Why Moths Matter (2019) by Butterfly ConservationButterfly Conservation
What does this mean?
Moths and their caterpillars are important food for many other species, including amphibians, small mammals, bats and many bird species. Let our scientist Dr Zoë Randle show you a few amazing examples from her moth trap.
School child holding an Elephant hawk-moth by Robbie LabanowskiButterfly Conservation
Why are they in decline?
The reasons for the loss of moths are many and complex. The loss of habitats resulting from more intensive agriculture, commercial forestry, industry and urban development are likely to be major reasons. A large factor is the changing climate. But it is possible to change this!
