Moths and Butterflies
in our garden

This summer (2009) we have seen more moths and butterflies than usual on the Isle of Wight.

On warm, sunny days they arrive in drifts, perhaps blown across The English Channel on warm summer breezes to feast on the flowers that thrive here.

We have succeeded in catching a few on camera - and we have tried to identify them using our copy of Larousse's 'Pocket Guide Wildlife of Britain and Europe'.

Jersey Tiger Moth

I spotted this magnificent Jersey Tiger Moth resting on our rain-speckled car door one morning in August. When it finally flew, its under-wings flashed bright orange.

Comma butterfly

Comma butterfly in profile

Comma butterflies visit our garden quite frequently. They are conspicuous by their jagged wings, seen best in profile.

Sometimes we see caterpillars, but are unable to identify them. The following beautiful creature, for example, was pictured climbing up the front door of our house. This picture is magnified to show its lovely marking, but in reality it measured no more than 15 mm in length, if that! Does anyone know what it is ? (Please use 'Contact Us' page)

Tiny caterpillar - 15 mm in length. Species unknown.

Painted Lady butterfly

Orange Tip butterfly

We will add to this page as and when we manage to film more winged visitors to our garden on the Isle of Wight!

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