The moths on the edge of forever

This field guide covers all "macro-moths" you are likely to encounter in Great Britain and Ireland, all in all about 900 species.

Each species presentation contains information on field characters, similar species, flight season, life cycle, larval food plants, habitat, status and distribution. Both scientific and vernacular names of the moths are included. Scientific names of the food plants are not given in the main text, but only in the index. This may or may not be annoying to an American visiting Britain with this field guide in his backpack.

The book also includes photos of larvae of many species, although it's not strictly speaking a field guide to such. Consider these photos an unexpected bonus!

The moths on the colour plates are usually illustrated in their natural position, with wings folded. Personally, I'm most fascinated by the English names given to the various moths. There are moths called Chinese Character, Figure of Eighty, Peach Blossom, Maiden's Blush and Mother Shipton. Not to mention Stranger, Exile, The Uncertain, Cousin German and Chimney Sweeper. But the most priceless moth name must be Setaceous Hebrew Character!

These truly are the moths on the edge of forever.

And remember: a moth is essentially nothing more than a nocturnal butterfly!