During a trip to Scotland with my good friends Phil Jones and Dan Pointon, I discovered a world I hadn’t explored before: clearwing moths. Phil mentioned he knew a few local sites near his hometown of Newcastle-under-Lyme that were perfect for trapping these fascinating insects. A day spent there changed everything—I was hooked.
Clearwing moths (family Sesiidae) are some of the UK’s most remarkable moths. Unlike the majority of their nocturnal relatives, these are day-flying insects that have evolved to mimic wasps and bees. This clever disguise protects them from predators, but it also makes them incredibly elusive to the casual observer.
Since that first day, I’ve spent countless hours this spring and summer following their trails, armed with pheromone lures designed to attract males. Watching these delicate, transparent-winged insects dart among willow, poplar, and apple trees is an unforgettable experience.
Why They Captivate
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Mimicry Masters: Many species look remarkably like Hymenoptera, fooling predators and observers alike.
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Diurnal Activity: Clearwings are active during the day, unlike most moths, making encounters both rare and thrilling.
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Elusive Nature: Even when you know where to look, they remain a challenge—trapping and observation require patience and precision.
Tips for Trapping and Observing
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Pheromone Lures: Synthetic female pheromones are essential, especially for the rarer species.
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Flight Periods: Most species are on the wing from May to August, though timing varies with latitude and host plant growth.
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Habitat Matters: Preserving host plants such as willow, poplar, apple, and currant is vital. Larvae often develop in older trees or dead wood, highlighting the importance of maintaining natural habitats.
Each successful trap feels like a small triumph, a fleeting encounter with a creature perfectly adapted to its world. For anyone willing to invest the time, clearwing moths offer a blend of scientific fascination and sheer aesthetic joy.
Species I’ve Trapped So Far:
Fiery Clearwing-Undisclosed Site-Kent-19th June 2025
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