NATIONAL WEEK

National Moth Week

Embrace the beauty of moths with your community and learn about their ecological role.

WHEN

Late July each year

Roots: First celebrated in 2012
Vibe: A celebration of nocturnal exploration
Hashtag: #NationalMothWeek

Send a card Email a friend

Fast facts

Over 160,000Moth species worldwide

Nearly 11,000Species in the United States

The story

National Moth Week, celebrated annually in late July, invites individuals, families, and communities to appreciate the beauty and ecological significance of moths. Founded in 2012 by Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission, this event encourages people to observe and document moth species in their local environments. The week-long celebration fosters awareness about the vital roles moths play in pollination and as a food source for various wildlife.

Read the full story

Moths, often overshadowed by their more colorful butterfly cousins, exhibit a remarkable diversity in size, color, and behavior. With some 160,000 species globally, and nearly 11,000 in the United States alone, moths are an integral part of our ecosystems. During National Moth Week, participants are encouraged to set up lights and traps to draw these creatures in, turning their backyards into vibrant moth-watching hubs.

The event aligns with a global effort to connect with nature and engage in citizen science. Participants can join local moth identification workshops, share their findings on social media, and contribute to databases that track moth populations. This collaborative approach not only enhances knowledge but also fosters a sense of community among nature enthusiasts.

As night falls, the soft flutter of moth wings becomes a symphony of nature, inviting all to take part in this celebration. From families to individuals, National Moth Week provides an opportunity to observe, learn, and appreciate the often-missed nocturnal wonders that inhabit our world.

Worth knowing

Moth Diversity

Discover over 160,000 moth species around the world.

Nighttime Adventure

Experience the magic of moth-watching after dark.

Capture the Moment

Document your moth sightings with photography.

Global Participation

Join a worldwide community of moth enthusiasts.

Did you know?

Moths vs. Butterflies

Moths are generally nocturnal, while butterflies are diurnal.

Moth Lifespan

Some moths live only a few days, while others can live for months.

Pollinators

Moths are important pollinators for many night-blooming plants.

Camouflage Experts

Many moths have evolved to blend in with their surroundings.

Cultural Significance

Moths appear in folklore, representing transformation and mystery.

Light Attraction

Moths are famously drawn to artificial lights at night.

Luna Moth

The Luna moth is known for its striking green wings and long tails.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesNational Moth Week is celebrated across the U.S., encouraging local events.
CACanadaCanadian enthusiasts participate in moth-watching activities.
GBUnited KingdomMoth conservation efforts are highlighted during this week.
AUAustraliaAustralian communities engage in nocturnal moth observations.
ZASouth AfricaSouth African naturalists celebrate local moth species.
DEGermanyGerman entomologists contribute to international moth research.