Clifden Nonpareil (Catocala fraxini, #689)

This beauty flew in through my son’s window; I didn’t see it, but at least he took a photo. This is the second Clifden Nonpareil we’ve seen in our Gloucestershire garden, the previous one being in Sept 2020. Until a few years ago this was a super-rare moth in UK, but it is getting commoner and maybe 2025 is another good year for the species.

Clifden Nonpareil

This super-impressive Clifden Nonpareil or Blue Underwing moth was attracted to my moth trap last night. These moths were extinct in UK and only reported as migrants, but the last few years have been turning up more often and it appears may well have re-established themselves. The warmer climate may have contributed to their return. They typically fly in September, their larvae preferring aspen and poplar trees. With a wing-span of 75-95 mm it’s a pretty big moth, the blue underwing (just visible on this photo) is believed to play a role in surprising predators so it can get away. Once the “Holy Grail” for moth enthusiasts, they may be getting commoner, but this is still a rather special creature to find in my own garden!

#689 Clifden Nonpareil - Catocala fraxini