Tips for Moth-Lighting

To start moth-lighting, tack up a white sheet or cloth outside. It could be on a wall or fence, tree or clothesline. I’ve used three types of UV (black) lights: (1) a ruler-size LED light bar that plugs into a USB port, (2) a traditional-style bulb in a mechanic’s clip-frame, and (3) a framed black light meant for parties. Set up the black light so it bounces light off the white cloth.

My moth-light locations have been compromises between proximity to an electrical cord (you can also use a charging block of some kind); being close to lots of garden or landscape plants; and a location that doesn’t disturb your neighbors too much. There’s no wrong way to do all this; just experiment with what you have.

Turn the black light on a half hour before sunset and check it regularly for a few hours after dark. Once relaxed on the sheet, moths mostly stay put, especially if there’s no wind and temperatures are cool. I use a cellphone to take moth photos. Phones have a remarkable macro ability; however, to get as much focus on as much detail as possible, I use a small, white ring-light made by Littil that clips to my phone.

Take a few shots of each moth, since one or more will not be in focus. For flattish moths, one image should be enough to identify it; however, if you are shooting a moth that is shaped like a tent, then take photos from directly above and from the side to help with identification.

One great plus for moth-lighting with a sheet is that you don’t have to catch the moth. A good photo won’t always earn a species identification from iNaturalist, but it’s a great way to document what’s in your neighborhood.

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More moth resources online

North American Moth Photographers’ Group

iNaturalist

Pacific Northwest Moths (includes northern California)

Bug Guide