Page 19 - North Haven Magazine Issue 29 Summer 2023

Hummingbird Moth Male Spongy Moth

ment. They are widespread, live in many different habitats, and on history and economics. Scientists study moths to learn about
are very sensitive to change. Scientists can monitor their range pest control, navigation, mimicry, biodiversity conservation, and
and numbers to learn clues about changes in our environment. genetics.
Moths may be an early indicator of problems with pesticides, air
pollution, climate change, and new farming practices. Go Mothing! This is a great activity for adults and children on a
Just like butterflies, moths are plant pollinators while feeding on summer evening. Simply hang a light-colored sheet outside (like
the nectar. Their fuzzy bodies collect a lot of pollen as they feast on a clothesline) away from other artificial lights on a windless,
on the nectar. This also helps with seed production and food pro- dry evening. Use any type of light to illuminate a large area of
duction. Moth pollinated flowers tend to be white and fragrant the sheet, though UV and black lights attract the most variety of
which helps the moths to find them in the dark. However, the moths. Be sure to use a hand lens to get a close look at the beau-
hummingbird moth does pollinate during the day. Without good tiful markings and details and document your moths with pho-
pollination, we would not have a good harvest of foods that are tographs.
important to us.
Considering all these areas of learning and beneficial functions,
Moths also have educational and scientific value. Young children moths do matter!
learn about the life cycle and how successive transformations cre-
ate new life forms. The wing patterns and iridescence are also part
of educational studies, as well as the impact that the silkworm had

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