I am writing to ask for your assistance. I am researcher at the University of Liverpool, I study the colouration of adult moths and larvae by analysis of digital photographs. I have been trying to source Alder moth adults because the larvae are so interesting, as I am sure you know changing from ‘bird poo mimics’ in the first few instars to brightly coloured later instars. I saw that Alder moths seem to be quite widely distributed within Somerset and was hoping if your group trap mated females or find larvae you would be able to send them to me so that I could document their development. I would of course return the pupae so as not to disrupt the biodiversity of your region. Your help and that of your group would be most gratefully received.

If you can help please contact Hannah on