The Matalepsis twins...

Moths are at a premium in early spring here in Ontario. It is often too cool at night to make running a moth trap a worthwhile proposition. However, the rewards can be considerable if the temperature climbs a little overnight.

Two highly-prized early spring moths are a pair of chunky noctuids in the genus Metalepsis. One, M. salicarum, is fairly common and widespread. It is a beautifully marked species - lots going on within those small wings! The other, M. fishii, is rather plain by comparison but makes up for this with it's apparant rarity. I've only trapped the latter once.


Metalepsis salicarum captured, photographed and released at Portage Lake in late April 2000. A real gem!


Metalepsis fishii captured, photographed and released at Portage lake in late April 2000. A great prize...