Moth Ball at Frost Fish Creek and Barclay’s Pond

On Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6, participants joined ecologist Beth Taylor for the Chatham Conservation Foundation’s Moth Ball at Frost Fish Creek and Barclay’s Pond. Attendees explored the nighttime world of forests, observing, photographing, and identifying moths in their natural habitat. Using black lights and sugaring solutions, the event attracted moths as well as a variety of other fascinating nocturnal creatures.

Beth Taylor described the experience: “The songs of night-singing tree crickets accompanied the Moth Ball participants as they walked through Frost Fish Creek and Barclay on two different nights. A black light set-up and sugaring solutions attracted moths—as well as robber flies, crane flies, ichneumon wasps, ground beetles, and daddy-long legs (who successfully captured the small moths).”

The Moth Ball offered a rare opportunity to experience the forest after dark, learn about moth identification, and appreciate the variety of species that come alive at night. As part of CCF’s efforts to connect the community with local wildlife, the event provided a hands-on and memorable experience for participants of all ages.

Photos by Beth Taylor