Embracing Caterpillars: A Call to Action for Moth Conservation in the UK

As spring arrives, conservation charities in the United Kingdom are raising alarms over a significant decline in moth populations, which have plummeted by 33% since the 1960s. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and The Wildlife Trusts are urging gardeners to adopt a more tolerant approach towards caterpillars, the juvenile stage of moths, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance. These organizations emphasize that caterpillars serve as a vital food source for various wildlife, including birds and bats, and their decline threatens broader ecosystem functions such as pollination.

Save Our Moths: Campaigners Warn of Plummeting Insect PopulationsProtect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charitiesThe Guardian

Moths play a crucial role in the UK’s natural environment, functioning as pollinators for native plants and providing sustenance for insect-eating species. The RHS highlights that the loss of caterpillars can disrupt food chains and weaken plant reproduction, ultimately diminishing habitat quality. The decline is attributed to several factors, including habitat loss due to agricultural intensification, pesticide use, light pollution, and climate change. These pressures necessitate urgent action to protect both caterpillars and their adult moth counterparts.

Save Our Moths: Campaigners Warn of Plummeting Insect PopulationsProtect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charitiesThe Guardian

In response to the crisis, the RHS advocates for a paradigm shift in gardening practices. Instead of resorting to pesticides to achieve pristine foliage, gardeners are encouraged to tolerate some nibbling on plants. Recommended strategies include manual removal of caterpillars, using physical barriers, and planting native species that support a diverse range of caterpillars. Suggested plants include willow, honeysuckle, foxgloves, and jasmine, which can help create a more biodiverse garden.

The Guardian

While the campaign promotes a more relaxed attitude towards caterpillars, some gardeners may resist this approach due to concerns about crop damage. The traditional view prioritizes aesthetic perfection in gardens, often leading to aggressive pest control measures. Critics argue that allowing caterpillars to thrive could result in significant losses for ornamental and vegetable crops.

Protect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charities

Helen Bostock, a senior wildlife expert at the RHS, stated, “Moths have long played second fiddle to butterflies in the garden but understanding their value and needs, and that of their very hungry caterpillars, can support their recovery and help in creating a garden rich in biodiversity.” This sentiment underscores the importance of recognizing the ecological value of moths and their larvae.

The GuardianThe Telegraph - UKProtect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charitiesSave Our Moths: Campaigners Warn of Plummeting Insect Populations

The RHS and The Wildlife Trusts are calling for community involvement in conservation efforts, including citizen science projects to monitor moth populations and habitats. They emphasize that collaborative actions across urban and rural landscapes are essential for creating safe corridors for moths to thrive. The success of these initiatives will depend on coordinated efforts between government, landowners, and individuals to ensure a viable future for moths and the ecosystems they support.

Save Our Moths: Campaigners Warn of Plummeting Insect PopulationsProtect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charitiesThe GuardianThe Telegraph - UK

• “In the end, a garden bursting with life, even if a little ragged around the edges, is far more beautiful than a sterile, silent landscape,” — Helen Bostock, RHS Senior Wildlife Expert

Protect caterpillars as UK's moth population plummets, urge charities

• “Vicki Hird, an insect expert at The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Moths are stunning in name and beautiful by nature.” — Vicki Hird, Insect Expert at The Wildlife Trusts.

The Guardian