Whilst often overlooked, moths are numerous and widespread and occupy all habitats from high mountain tops to coastal shores. Over 2,500 species have been recorded in the UK, and over 1100 of these occur in Dumfries and Galloway.

Moths are often divided into two broad categories: macro-moths, containing the families are typically larger in size, and micro-moths for the remaining families which are typically smaller. On the whole this distinction works well; however moth recorders will soon become aware of some micro-moths that are quite large and some macro-moths that are tiny!

Research shows that the abundance of the UK’s larger moths has decreased significantly during the past 50 years, and over two-thirds of common and widespread macro-moth species have declined in this period.

The Butterfly Conservation website has some excellent information about moths, their ecological role and the ongoing monitoring of their conservation status.

Common Moths

Anyone taking an interest in moths will soon begin to encounter many of the common species. Below is a selection of species that are frequently recorded in Dumfries and Galloway, showing some of the variety of shapes, sizes and structures of this diverse group of insects.