National Moth Week
Why it matters
EXPLORE MOTHS TOGETHER
Embrace the beauty of moths with your community and learn about their ecological role.
THE STORY
National Moth Week, celebrated annually from July 22 to 30, invites individuals, families, and communities to appreciate the beauty and ecological significance of moths. Originating in 2012, 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.
Moths, often overshadowed by their more colorful butterfly cousins, exhibit a remarkable diversity in size, color, and behavior. With over 160,000 species globally, and around 11,000 in North America 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.
Moths are not just nighttime insects; they are vital to our ecosystems.
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.
AROUND THE WORLD
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 drawn to light sources due to their navigation instincts.
Luna Moth
The Luna moth is known for its striking green wings and long tails.
READ MORE
Moths of North America
David L. Wagner
A comprehensive guide to North American moths, featuring identification tips.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Eric Carle
A classic children’s book that introduces the life cycle of a moth.
Moths: Their Natural History
John A. Shuey
An in-depth look at the biology and ecology of moths.
Mothography
Michael Moore
A stunning collection of moth photography capturing their beauty.
PAIR IT WITH
Discover the diversity of moths in your area.
Understand the ecological roles of moths.
Join local events during National Moth Week.
Set up lights to attract moths at night.
Share Your Moth Moments
Celebrate National Moth Week by sharing your observations and photos with friends and family online.