Meet the Buff-tip moth

This is the Buff-tip moth, aka the best type of moth in the UK. This little guy is one of my favourite moth species and this morning I finally got to see one in person right on my doorstep (literally!). So, here is a little overview of the Buff-tip moth and why they are so amazing!

Identification:

Blink and you’ll miss it! This moth is a literal master of disguise. It’s colouring and pattern mimic a birch tree twig; right up to its head that looks like a snapped off piece of twig. It has silver-grey colouring with a squared off buffy head and a buff patch at the end of its wings.

About:

The Buff-tip moth can usually be seen between the months of May-July. It usually only likes to fly after dark. The caterpillar for a Buff-tip moth is orange and black, quite large in size and hairy- sometimes they can be seen in quite large numbers.

My experience:

I came across this little guy resting literally on our doorstep, which made him stand out quite a lot. Although I probably wouldn’t have paid any notice if I didn’t know what I was looking for! I moved him onto a branch and into the undergrowth where he would be safe until night- although I had to take the opportunity for a few photographs first!