Balsam carpet etc

As if to confirm DW's comments to Ben that it would not be

surprising if Balsam carpets were found in Oxfordshire, this specimen

came to light 11/12th.

Interestingly it's preferred resting position seemed to be with wings closed

as with the Early thorn below.

First Thorn for me in 2019.

I found by trial and error, actually all error, that even if you put a trap out, if you don't put the light on, you won't attract any moths! Came down 3.15 am to get a glass of water and found I hadn't put lights on. Thought it would be a waste of time but decided to turn lights on then. I did attract one moth which just happened to be this Small emerald; a new species for me.

Small emerald.

Alan Diver

Tackley.