Nature Tripping Episode 34 - The Emperor Moth (Part 1)
Join Cathy and Jo on Norland Moor with moth expert Anthony Arak as we leave a moth trap out overnight and return in the morning to see who’s arrived. This episode is Part 1 of a two-part series devoted to exploring the life cycle of the majestic Emperor Moth. We listen to the experiences of four Bridestones Rewilded volunteers weaving their lives around some very hungry Emperor Moth caterpillars as they moult, grow, change colour and each spin themselves a silk cocoon.
What is the difference between butterflies and moths? What’s it like to bring up caterpillars? How does a caterpillar transform itself into a moth? And what are moth experts witnessing on the moors of Calderdale as climate change brings warmer conditions across England?
See below for the pictures of moths seen in this episode, and more resources on moth identification and trapping. With thanks also to Ian Curley, Sheila Tilmouth, Wren and Greta.
The female Emperor Moth and her eggs in Anthony Arak’s moth trap, Spring 2026. Photo credit: Anthony Arak
Moths visiting the moth trap in this episode, from the top, left to right: The Canary Shouldered Thorn; The Chevron; The Welsh Wave; The Scalloped Tip; The July High Flyer; True Lovers Knot; The Neglected Rustic; The Scarce Footman; The Sallow Kitten: The Bordered Straw and the Large Yellow Underwing. Photo credits: Anthony Arak & Nature Tripping
Moth Resources:
Flying Tonight: https://yorkshiremoths.co.uk/flyingtonight.php
Crawling Tonight: https://yorkshiremoths.co.uk/crawlingtonight.php
ObsIdentify: https://observation.org/apps/obsidentify/
UK Moths website: https://www.ukmoths.org.uk
Moth Book: Concise Guide to Moths of Great Britain and Ireland by Mark Townsend and Paul Waring
A moth trap Anthony uses which is good for beginners: The Merlin by Falcon Moth Traps
Anthony and a Merlin moth trap
Recording the podcast, and the mercury vapour lamp moth trap described in the episode