Rare moth species spotted in Hampshire for first time

Pamber Forest Nature Reserve made the discoveries during its 2025 recording season with the help of volunteers from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT).

Among the new records were Gelechia scotinella and Haplotinea insectella, both micro-moths, along with at least 20 other species never previously documented at the site.

Graham Dennis, reserves officer at HIWWT, said: "Many of these new arrivals are spreading from southern areas due to climate change, while others are accidental introductions finding suitable habitats in Britain.

Rare moths spotted in forest near Basingstoke for the first time ever (Image: HIOWWT)

"A few species have probably been here all along but are extremely elusive.

"The concentrated survey effort this year made it possible to document them for the first time in Hampshire."

The ancient woodland reserve’s combination of veteran trees, bracken-rich glades, and open rides supports a diverse invertebrate community, including nationally scarce moths.

During one recording session in July, volunteers recorded 305 different species in a single night.

Gelechia scotinella, one of the newly recorded species, is a small chocolate-brown moth with silvery markings.

It is classified as nationally scarce and had previously been identified in only three other counties in Britain.

Mr Dennis said: "Some species were single individuals, while others, like Acleris umbrana, were seen on multiple nights.

"We won’t know for certain whether some of the rarer species will be found again, which makes every sighting exciting."

Its larvae feed on blackthorn shrubs found along woodland rides and edges.

The other moth, Haplotinea insectella, has pale yellowish-brown forewings. Its larvae feed on fungi growing on tree trunks.

Both species are listed as proposed Red Data Book (pRDB) species, indicating their conservation importance.

The success of the recording season was due in large part to the efforts of HIWWT volunteers.

Nicknamed "moth-ers," these individuals help set up light traps powered by generators or batteries, apply sugary attractants to tree trunks, and hand-net moths and larvae for identification.

They also help with habitat management, maintaining the rides, glades, and veteran trees that support such high levels of biodiversity.

Mr Dennis said: "Our volunteers make a real difference every day.

"Whether recording moths or helping with practical conservation work, their contributions protect this special site and help us uncover Hampshire’s hidden biodiversity.

"Anyone interested in nature, from beginners to experienced naturalists, is welcome to join."

The discoveries also align with the trust’s Wilder 2023 strategy, which aims to restore and safeguard habitats to allow nature to thrive.

HIWWT is now encouraging more people to volunteer at the reserve.

Opportunities include moth recording, hands-on habitat management, and supporting wider wildlife recovery efforts across the region.

Details about how to get involved can be found on the trust’s website at hiwwt.org.uk/volunteering-opportunities.