The Sprawler (Asteroscopus sphinx, #975)

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Only two moths came to the light yesterday; probably one of last times my moth trap will be out this year. A lone Satellite (Eupsilia transversa) in the trap and a Sprawler (Asteroscopus sphinx) - a new species for me - on the wall nearby. The Sprawler is a late-flying moth, on the wing from October to December, but peaking around now. It’s a woodland species whose caterpillars rears up its spiny head when threatened, giving the moth its name.

October Moths: White-point (Mythimna albipuncta, #966)

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There are less moths, but this weekend some new species and a bit more variety. White-point was a new one for the garden. Flying in the Autumn, it’s an immigrant from the continent caught mainly in the South-East of England, that may have started establishing a resident population - not a bad catch for Gloucestershire. Superficially similar the Satellite has a different shaped while spot on its wings. This moth can be caught throughout the Autumn & Winter, from September until April. Deep-brown Dart and Black Rustic are both autumn species, typical for this period.

#915 The Satellite (Eupsilia transversa)

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After a wet March and being away over Easter, I finally put the moth trap out for the first time this year. Catches included my first Satellite (Eupsilia transversa, #915). This moth over-winters as an adult and can be caught right through the winter when the weather is mild, up until April. Sometimes the spot on the wing is white, rather than orange like in this case. Apart from Common & Small Quakers and several Clouded Drabs, the more interesting catches were a handsome Streamer, a (rather early) Scorched Carpet and this fine Black Sexton Beetle.