Moth-spotting at Springhead

Ducks and swans have always been appreciated on Springhead’s lake, but we’ve recently been finding out about some of the smaller and more hidden creatures to be found in our 15 acres of gardens and grounds.

The Small Elephant Hawk-moth (pictured above) is just one of more than 250 moth species recorded this summer by moth expert Tim Norriss. Found in one of Springhead’s orchards, this species lives in chalk grassland and other areas where it can find foodplants such as Honeysuckle and campions.

Other moths (pictured top to bottom below) collected in moth traps and photographed by Bill Raymond include the Lappet moth, which looks like a cluster of dried leaves; the Privet Hawk-moth – the largest hawk-moth in the UK; and the Poplar Hawk-moth, which doesn’t feed as an adult but eats poplar and willow leaves as a caterpillar.

The results of the moth survey, the wider invertebrate survey and other surveys including the bird survey carried out in the early summer, are helping to build up a picture of the biodiversity supported by Springhead’s rich and varied habitats and how best to conserve it. ‘Knowing which insects, birds, small mammals and other wildlife are found at Springhead helps us to manage the gardens and grounds in the best way to ensure there is appropriate food and shelter for the different species’ says Edward Parker, the charity’s Director.

Share

Springhead is a charity
Registration number: 1112083
Company register number: 5370640

The Springhead Trust is a small charity, so any support you give will make a big difference. With your help, we can continue preserving our historic buildings and gardens for the benefit of all, and give more children and groups the opportunity to enjoy the countryside and arts, and learn about sustainable living.

Springhead
Fontmell Magna
Shaftesbury
Dorset SP7 0NU

Phone: 01747 811853
Email: [email protected]

© 2024 The Springhead Trust | All rights reserved