Scarlet Tiger Moth

Probably recently emerged, resting on the branch of a horsetail in the sunshine on Wednesday morning, a beautiful moth.

‘Scarlet’ because the hindwings are a stunning colour, peeking through here, but seen most clearly when they fly.

This caterpillar was crossing the towpath in mid-April, perhaps having arisen from its winter dormancy ready to feed-up, pupate and, a month later, transform into an adult moth. Not unexpected in the Reserve as its food plants include Hemp Agrimony and Comfrey, which are growing in the Orchard, besides nettles and bramble. Typically adorned with a colourful warning pattern (aposematic colouration) and toxic hairs to deter predators.

Keep an eye out over the next few weeks as the adult moths are generally only around through May and into early July.

Further information and images

The Wildlife Trusts: Scarlet Tiger

First Nature: Scarlet Tiger Moth

Marginal pond plants

Over the past couple of weeks we have put in some more plants (purchased from Naturescape) around the boggy edges. The images below illustrate the flowers, from the eight different species, that we hope will appear next year.

Cuckoo flower - 10x plugs

Lesser spearwort - 3x super plugs

Marsh mallow - 5x super plugs

Marsh marigold - 3x 9cm pots

Purple loosestrife - 10x plugs

Ragged Robin - 3x 9cm pots

Sawwort - 3x 9cm pots

Water avens - 10x plugs

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