October moths

The month of October is not traditionally known for a great diversity of moths. However, there are some nice-looking creatures on the wing at this time if one puts some effort into it. The three moths shown all belong in the geometer family. Geometers usually have large wings, which they lay flat when at rest, and often have a rather slender thorax and abdomen. They tend to look quite delicate and frequently have a slow and fluttery flight pattern. Often, they can be seen during the daytime in wooded areas.

The top photograph depicts a rather striking moth called the Juniper Carpet. Below that we have the more sombre Autumnal Moth and lastly the big-winged and fragile-looking Linden Looper Moth (aka. Winter Moth). The first two were seen at a site just south of Parry Sound and the last near Bracebridge, Ontario - all in October. The complex patterns on the forewings of these moths ensure they are perfectly camouflaged when at rest during the daytime. Very important when there are masses of hungry birds around!

Mind you, after october it really does slow down in the moth department! What will moth man blog on about then...