In this beginner moth course you can delve into the night-time world! Find out more about British moths and how to identify them.
Moths are attractive, diverse and abundant. There are 2,500 species in Britain and Ireland, playing important roles in local ecosystems. Along with enjoying moths for their own sake, their study can tell us more about environmental conditions and the effects of climate change. Recording moth sightings has never been more important.
This course will include:
- An introduction to moths and their biology and ecology.
- Guidance on how to approach moth identification, concentrating on the larger (macro) moths, and a review of moth identification resources – both in print and online.
- Hands-on identification of moths and practical experience of using light traps.
- Advice on how to take moth recording further, including how to submit records of your sightings.
Read More
Aimed at beginners, this course will provide a hands-on introduction to British moths, focusing on the identification of common species of larger (macro) moths. It will introduce moth biology and ecology, and will provide guidance on how to use a variety of identification resources. Course participants will help to set up moth traps during the evening session and will take part in a practical identification workshop the following morning using live moths that have been caught the night before. Advice will be given about how to further develop an interest in moths, including why and how to record your sightings.
(Please note – the course will be focusing on larger (macro) moths and not micro-moths).
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Identify a range of moths flying at this time of year.
- Understand basic moth biology and ecology.
- Use a range of moth identification resources.
- Understand how (and why) to record your moth sightings.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers, early career consultants and ecologists. The course is suitable for anyone who wishes to learn about moths and moth recording.
Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors.
Prior Knowledge – No existing knowledge or experience is needed for this course, just a willingness to explore and learn.
PLEASE NOTE: There is no accommodation, refreshments, or meal facilities provided with this course. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be available. If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.
Bookings will close if course capacity is reached.
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
About the Tutor
Mike Hetherington
Mike (BSc MSc MCIEEM) is a Butterfly Conservation volunteer and member of the Dorset Moths verification team. He has been recording moths since 2007. His MSc research project studied calcareous grassland moths and he has a particular interest in moth migration.
Example Timetable
This course will involve both classroom learning and field excursions to cover all of the learning objectives.
This course will take place across two days with sessions on Friday evening and Saturday morning.
Timetable
Please note that this timetable may be subject to change.
Friday
- 6 pm- 6:30 pm- Introductions and welcome
- 8:30 pm- 9 pm- Moth traps and how to use them. Set traps for the night.
Saturday
- 9 am- 11 am- Examining the catch from the moth traps
- 11 am- 11:30 am- Taking it further- moth recording
- 11:30 am - 12:00 am- Recap, questions and session feedback
What's Included
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.
The course includes:
- Field excursions to apply new knowledge
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Clear objectives and progression
- Refreshments (tea/coffee)
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
Bursaries and Subsidies
Student Discount
This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.
Natural History Bursaries
There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, read more here.
Before You Attend
There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.
What to Bring
- Notebook and pencil
- Lunch and refreshments
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
- Small bag to carry personal items
If you have them:
- A camera or a mobile phone camera.
- A magnifying glass may be useful, but a hand lens will not be required.
- Your preferred moth ID guide
While a limited number of field guides will be available for use, participants are encouraged to bring their own field guides.
Recommended Literature
- Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland – Waring & Townsend (Bloomsbury) - either the full or concise version.
- British Moths A Gateway Guide – Lowen
- British & Irish Moths – A Photographic Guide – Manley
(Please note – the course will be focusing on larger (macro) moths and not micro-moths).
Opportunities to attend this course
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Fri 04, July 2025 18:00 - Sat 05, July 2025 12:00
Further information and directions for Killerton House (National Trust) can be found here. Please note course times are split across two days: Friday 4th July 2025 6pm - 9pm, Saturday 5th July 2025 9am- 12pm.
No current dates for this course? Click here to view all the upcoming Natural History courses.
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Progress Your Learning
This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, delivered by expert tutors with an approachable learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning with further relevant courses or branch out into other areas of natural history. The Field Studies Council offers both online and in-person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.
The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.
If you have any questions about our courses please check out our Frequently Asked Questions or email [email protected].
Group Bookings Made Easy
If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses. Find out more!
