There were talks from a variety of people and most were very interesting. Zoe Randle announced the structure for the regional and national verification panels for inclusion of micro-moths into the system. After Zoe the programme was:
Changing Fortunes of Moths in Yorkshire by Charles Fletcher (Yorkshire CMR). A very interesting talk on increases and decreases of certain species due presumably to climate change.
Conservation of Fisher's Estuarine Moth by Zoe Ringwood (Natural England). Where she spoke of its perilous survival and measures being taken to not only protect it, but increase its range
The Bordered Grey enigma by Paul Brooks - an Englishman living in Angus. How he was tasked to find out more about the Scottish colony which he was successful in doing
Burnets, cyanide bombs and colonisation by Mika Zagrobelny (Copenhagen University). Fascinating talk about the uses of cyanide in the 6-spot burnet
The Dark side of Street lighting by Callum MacGregor (Newcastle University/CEH). The affects of street lighting on moth behaviour
Some like it Hot by Georgina Palmer (York University). Reasons why species respond to climate change
and finally A Focus on Moths (the Youth Nature Network). A society trying to get young people involved in the outdoors
In between it was a chance to catch up and chat with colleagues from around the country. Over 200 people attended and a buffet lunch was supplied. The image was after the mid afternoon coffee break where some unscrupulous folk had sneaked out to head for home, leaving a few empty seats.
For me it was a chance to chat with people I know from the UTB area, plus Hereford and Worcester and also Ceredigion. Plus people I regularly liaise with on the moth dissection side and these are from all over the show.
If you've never attended one of these events, you should think about going. It's well worth your while. They videoed it all and are going to try and upload the days' speakers and produce a video link on the BC website of the day. When this happens I'll let you know and provide a link to view. Peter Hall
Sorry to be so late in saying what an interesting piece this is, Peter. When I was in Leeds, Charles Fletcher was a fantastic help. I think he's a GP so how he finds time to be so expert on moths (and so generous with his knowledge), I do not know. I must take up your suggestion of going sometime. Btw, on the Hereford and Worcester front, I wonder if you have come across Martin Skirrow, father-in-law of one of my cousins, who lives near the Malverns and is a tremendous oth (and other insect) enthusiast. I have put the moth trap out tonight so fingers crossed. All warm wishes, Martin W
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