We are in the record books with the most northerly occurence of a moth which is classed as 'Nationally Scarce B'.
One of our assistant wardens, Ed, has been using a moth trap and on 21st July 2013 caught a Waved Black (Parascotia fuliginaria) and this is the first time this species has been found in Co. Durham (for recording of amimals and plants the recording system is based on the old counties so we are in Vice-County Durham). Normally seen in the South of the UK it is recorded as far North as Nottinhamshire and Yorkshire so, being a woodland species, I expect it can be seen in Sherwood Forest.
Ed's photo has been verified by UK Moths so we know it is the real thing. Thanks, Ed, for letting me use the shot - the background shows it was not from a book.
When the weather looks good Ed will set his light trap on the reserve and then, before we all start work, record and release all the wonderful moths the following morning. Although we seldom see them many of the moths are as colourful and marked as any butterfly and are an essential part of the ecosystem.
Today we also found the caterpillar of a Grey Dagger moth on a sallow (willow) in the Discovery Zone - a rather splendid creature.
Peter
Correction (again) after checking my notes - 21st July.
My mistake - and I've changed the blog - it should have been 14th Aug! Thanks, Ian, for gently pointing out my error. And today was good for butterflies with dave Braithwaite seeing a Comma on the Hemp Agrimony.
Wow! Also a time travelling record! Posted on the 18th but not caught until tomorrow!