Rheidol Valley

A trip to woodland in the Rheidol Valley last night. 88 moths of 34 species. Most numerous were Variagated Golden Tortrix (17+), Eudonia lacustrata (11+) and Aleimma loeflingiana (10). Highlights were Lilac Beauty, Beautiful Snout, Northern Spinach, Peach Blossom (3), Barred Yellow, Cydia fagiglandana and Eudonia delunella (2). New for me is what might be Celypha aurofasciana (although this one doesn't look very golden):

Aberystwyth garden

Last night was a bit breezy. 45 of 62 moths were Heart and Darts. Among the others, my first Shoulder-striped Wainscot for three years, and what I think is a Ni Moth.

A dark clouded silver

 A very dark clouded silver (or is it something else..?). Much darker than any other I have had. Aberaeron.

Ochreous pug

This one from Aberaeron a few nights ago. Described as "common" but I have only had one before but that was on the way up Pumlumon Fawr in daylight! The records to 2021 show 24 previous records in the county, mine on the mountain being the 25th. So this, according to Pete, is the 26th. Given the challenges of identifying pugs, perhaps they are under-recorded? 

Small mottled willow at Aberaeron

 A first for me last night in my garden in Aberaeron. 

Moths at Bontgoch

 Delighted to find a Small Purple-barred in my trap this morning. My only previous sightings were the odd day flier at Cors fochno years ago. Alder moth, Lobster and Satin Wave were also present. Earlier this week I had my first Lead Belle for many years.

 

Proof of breeding or a holiday romance?

 Striped Hawkmoths, new to me!  May 25/26th Aberporth garden trap.