Culbin’s plantlife could not thrive without the presence of Culbin’s many moths, butterflies and other flying insects.
The pollinators
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| Scotch argus butterfly |
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The moths and butterflies found here have vivid and descriptive names: nut-tree tussock moth, frosted orange moth, rosy rustic moth; and butterflies such as the tiny small and common blues (which pollinate vetch species such as bird’s foot trefoil), the grayling, the speckled wood and the multi-eyed scotch argus. Many have evolved to camouflage themselves in a woodland habitat or against a summer sky.
A role in the natural life cycle
As you reach for the insect repellent in late Summer and Autumn it’s useful to remember that even insects which are a nuisance to humans such as clegs (horseflies) play a role in the natural cycle here: they mate in horse-dung and help it break down, and also play an important part in pollinating Culbin’s plantlife (see more on Culbin’s plants).
Pollination is not an intentional insect activity, but a useful side-effect of insects feeding on plant pollen and nectar. It enables plants to reproduce, ensuring their survival. Every action within the insect life of Culbin is part of a far bigger picture.
Looking for butterflies and moths
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| Common blue butterfly |
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If you want to look for butterflies, choose a bright, sunny Summer’s day and look near flowering plants. Look for their hair-like antennae and long, coiled tongue plunging into the nectar.
Moths are best found at dusk with the aid of a torch and a white sheet – shine the torch through the sheet and see what the light attracts, and always allow them time to recover from the dazzling effect of the light before flying away again. At Culbin you will see some moths flying by day, too.
Back to Culbin's plants and wildlife.
