THE LARGER MOTHS AND BUTTERFLIES OF ESSEX
A selection of recent records
Brian Goodey
It is now over seven years since Pyman (1987) published his update to
The Larger Moths and Butterflies of Essex (Essex Naturalist number 8).
The recording process has continued and has revealed much new
information on the distribution of our Macrolepidoptera. Eight species
have been added to the county list and there have been some notable
changes in the fortunes of others. Generally the picture seems far from
gloomy. We have all but lost the Dingy Skipper and Grayling butterflies,
but seem to have gained the Orange Footman and Shaded Fan-foot, and
a surprising number of species appears to be increasing with very few
reports of any declines.
Recently, interest has shifted slightly in favour of the recording of our
microlepidoptera and it is hoped that a similar list, dealing with this new
information, can soon be published he list below follows the layout of
Pyman's 1987 update. Each entry locality is preceded by its ten
kilometre square and ended with the initials of the recorder.
Cossidae
162 Cossus cossus L. Goat Moth. Five recent records of this scarce
species have occurred in the 90 square: three at Bradwell in 1987,
1988 and 1989 (AJD, SFJD), and two at Steeple on 29 July 1993
(DGD).
Limacodidae
173 Apoda limacodes Hufn. Festoon. 01 Thorrington, larva on oak,
September 1990 (KT). 92 Friday Wood and 02 Donylands Woods, up
to five per night 1976 to 1990 (BG, JY); 02 High Woods 17 July 1992
two females at my light (JF, BG).
174 Heterogenea asella D&S. Triangle. A further specimen taken in a
north-east Essex woodland on 2 August 1987. Recorder's name
withheld.
Sesiidae
370 Sesia apiformis Cl. Hornet Moth. Specimens noted at 92 Chest
Wood 1991, a male and female at rest on poplar (NC); 11 Riddles
Wood 1986 (RWA, BCM); and at 22 Frinton in 1992 (RM).
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