SCARLET TIGER VISITOR

This striking scarlet tiger moth was discovered lying beside the moth trap in the Firs Chase garden on Sunday 30th. When it flicked its wings open it revealed the bright scarlet hindwings - very eye-catching. There was only one previous record of scarlet tiger in Essex prior to this year, although in the last couple of days it has been reported from Stebbing and also Shoeburyness. The species is mainly found in the south west of England and Wales with a small population in Kent. One of the main foodplants is common comfrey of which there is a lot in this Firs Chase garden which may've persuaded the moth to stop by here.

Five elephant hawkmoths were a colourful sight in the trap on Sunday evening.

The large privet hawkmoth was resting beside the trap, the first one noted here this summer.

A couple of common emeralds were also noted.

The first festoon sighting in the garden, a species that has increased across the county in recent years.

The white satin moth is aptly named with its pure white wings while the legs are a distinctive black and white.

The scarce micro moth Evergestis limbata seen in the garden on Sunday has been recorded previously at the country park a couple of times in recent years.

Thirty three species of macro moth were recorded on Sunday evening totalling just over 100 moths.