About the event

At this event you'll learn all about mothing, including trying different trapping techniques and developing your identification skills.

You'll join one of the warden team as the sun is setting to prepare a Robinson's light trap, before they show you the best techniques for catching moths flying around the light with nets. You'll have the opportunity to try it yourself, before transferring the moths to pots. As the moths are caught, the warden will share their skills and experience with you, giving hints and tips to guide you through the identification of different species.

You'll have the opportunity to return to Tyland Barn at 8am the next morning, to check on the trap you set up the previous evening and see what species have been caught. There will be hot drinks and pastries to enjoy as you pick up more identification skills working through the moths in the trap.

Species identified previously at Tyland Barn include the Brimstone Moth, White Ermine, Muslin Moth, Common Quaker, Coxcomb Prominent and Ruby Tiger, with the possiblity of finding Elephant, Poplar and Eyed Hawkmoths.

This event will run with an evening session on Thursday 9 May, 8.30-10pm and a morning session on Friday 10 May, 8-9.30am.

This event is aimed at an adult audience, but 14-17 year olds are welcome to attend with an accompanying adult over 18.

The event will involve a 1.5 hour session in the evening, followed by a further 1.5 hour session the following morning from 8am. The Pond Cafe will not be open in the evening, but hot drinks will be provided. For the morning session, hot drinks and a pastry are included as part of the event, and the Pond Cafe will be open after the session ends.

This event will take place outdoors, so ensure you wear footwear and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Due to the nature of this event it may be necessary to cancel at short notice if rain or wind is forecast and the wardens believe the chance of successful trapping is too low. In this situation you will contacted as soon as this decision has been made and either transferred to a new date or refunded.

Parking and toilets are available at Tyland Barn for the duration of the event. Please be aware that the car park and reserve will be closed from the end of usual opening hours at 4pm until shortly before the start of the event.