Threat to Rare Moth in Orchard

The Cambridgeshire Moth Group recently made an exciting discovery in a local orchard, trapping a dark crimson underwing moth, a species so rare that none of the group members had encountered it before. Typically found only in the New Forest, this vibrant invertebrate is classified as nationally scarce. The excitement among the group was palpable, prompting one member to capture the moment with a photograph. The orchard, owned by Gazeley and pesticide-free since 1996, is home to over 200 invertebrate species, including 14 that are nationally scarce. Gazeley’s orchard, with its aging fruit trees, provides essential habitats for various invertebrates and birds, supporting the growth of important fungi. Unfortunately, traditional orchards in England have seen a dramatic decline, with approximately 90% lost since the 1950s due to modern agricultural practices that prioritize younger trees and pesticide use. The moth group regularly traps species at Coton orchard, which offers diverse habitats and has remained pesticide-free for decades. On a warm, cloudy night in August, the group set four traps, creating ideal conditions for moth trapping. While the dark crimson underwing is believed to be a migrant from Europe, Gazeley remains hopeful for a breeding population in her orchard, which features semi-mature oak trees and dead wood from apple trees—an environment conducive to the moth's lifecycle. However, the discovery comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the proposed C2C busway, which faces local opposition. Gazeley noted that while the rare moth is a significant find, it may not substantially impact the campaign against the busway, given the existing presence of numerous rare species in her orchard.