|Presented by||The Friends of the EB Environmental Commission|
|Spend the time||outdoors|
|Appropriate for kids||yes|
Camera to photograph moths. Computer access to upload data.
National Moth Week
|Collect data on moth species, ecology and distribution|
|Spot, photograph and list moths during National Moth Week.|
Like moths to a flame? Did you know the US is home to over 11,000 moth species? Head outside during National Moth Week July 19-27, 2014 and find a few. Join existing teams or organize a count in your area! Photograph or record moths spotted in parks, environmental education centers, or fluttering around your porchlight.
Why study moths? Moths are among the most diverse and successful organisms on earth. Scientists estimate there are 150,000 to more than 500,000 moth species. Their colors and patterns are either dazzling or so cryptic that they define camouflage. Shapes and sizes span the gamut from as small as a pinhead to as large as an adult’s hand. Most moths are nocturnal, and need to be sought at night to be seen – others fly like butterflies during the day. Finding moths can be as simple as leaving a porch light on and checking it after dark. Serious moth aficionados use special lights and baits to attract them.