The Somerset Moth Group was formed in 1989 by a band of local enthusiasts to record and study the moths of the area and to promote interest in these fascinating creatures. The group conducts research and monitoring, with individual efforts by members and group field meetings having amassed over a million records to date. A macro moth distribution atlas for Somerset was produced in 2012, and the group keeps an up-to-date distribution map for every species of macro- and micro-moth that has been found in the county. Records are submitted annually to Butterfly Conservation’s National Moth Recording Scheme.
The group provides an identification and verification service, and anyone can send in photographs or specimens for confirmation. Although run independently it is affiliated to the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society and works closely with a range of conservation bodies.
Getting involved
Meetings take the form of moth-trapping evenings in the summer months and the AGM is held in the early winter. Members can keep in touch via the website, where they can share news of sightings and upload photographs. There is also a regular newsletter ‘Nocturnal Record’ for members.
The group caters for all levels of expertise, from the beginner to the expert. There are some experienced enthusiasts, at various locations across the county, who are willing to help new members or those wishing to improve their skills. There is a small annual membership fee and members are asked to agree to a code of conduct for moth recording.
Contacts
Treasurer & Membership Secretary: Paul Newman Tel: 01749 838624 Email: pingramnewman@gmail.com
Moth recorder: Chris Iles Tel: 01761 414798 Email: kifill22@hotmail.com
Chairman: Rob Grimmond Email: motcombe@btinternet.com