The Sprawler (Asteroscopus sphinx, #975)

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.

#975 Sprawler (Asteroscopus sphinx)

#915 Satellite (Eupsilia transversa)

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

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.

#966 White-point (Mythimna albipuncta)

#915 Satellite (Eupsilia transversa)

#912 Deep-brown Dart (Aporophyla lutulenta)

#683 Black Rustic (Aporophyla nigra)