Nora Sirbaugh
Hopewell Township
July 20-28, 2013 has been designated National Moth Week. This event provides a much-needed spotlight on moths and their ecological importance as well as their incredible biodiversity.
Part of an increasingly important Citizen Scientist movement throughout the United States, the global celebration is part of a program known as “One Species at a Time” series from the Encyclopedia of Life (eol.org), which is hosted by Ari Daniel Shapiro and produced by Atlantic Public Media.
Why moths? Moths are among the most diverse and successful organisms on earth. Scientists estimate there are 150,000 to more than 500,000 moth species. Their colors and patterns are either dazzling or so cryptic that they define camouflage. Shapes and sizes span the gamut from as small as a pinhead to as large as an adult’s hand. Most moths are nocturnal, and need to be sought at night to be seen – fly like butterflies during the day.
Part of the web of life, moths are an important food source for frogs, bats, lizards, other insects, and small mammals. Their caterpillars are especially important as a food source for baby birds. In addition, moths are an important plant pollinator, contributing to our food supply as well as our many garden plants. Moths also play a vital role in telling us about the health of our environment, like the canary in the coal mine. Since they are so widespread and found in so many different habitats, and are so sensitive to changes, moths are particularly useful as indicator species.
Monitoring their numbers and ranges can give us vital clues to changes in our own environment, such as the effects of new farming practices, pesticides, air pollution and climate change.
To learn more about moths and to participate in events celebrating this elusive species, visit http://nationalmothweek.org/2012/08/22/national-moth-week-2013/.