Welcome to
Moth Monitor Training!
A program of The Land Between
Start Learning!
Training Modules are interactive presentations that allow you to complete activities and answer questions as you learn about your volunteer program!
There are several different ways you will be able to interact with this module. On any given page you will see all or some of the buttons below. Hover your mouse over each button to see what they do and how you can use them to navigate in this module.
When you are finished, click the NEXT button at the bottom right of the page.
Next
Sometimes content or options will not appear until you have explored all the content on the page or completed the activity. For example, often the Button will not appear until you have completed an activity or clicked on all images that reveal content on a given page.
Next
You will see this image on the bottom of the screen throughout the module. This explorer will be your guide and helper as you work through the module. You can click on them for help if you get stuck, or for more information!
Next
All clickable images will have one of these symbols on or next to them. Some images will also expand to show you they are clickable. If an image expands and/or pulses, you can click directly on it. If it does not expand and/or pulse, use the symbol to access the content.
Clickable Image Example:
If you have any issues, you can contact us! Send an email to volunteers@thelandbetween.ca or give us a call at (705) 457-1222
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
Click the next button to start learning!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Warning
There are dangers in these volunteer activities. Please participate at your own discretion.
Next
Considerations for Data Collection
Data on Species at Risk is sensitive and can't be shared without permission from The Land Between Charity.
This information is confidential and must remain private to protect vulnerable species.
By volunteering with The Land Between, you agree to help protect Ontario species and keep moth observations, and other information confidential.
I Understand and agree
Safety Guidelines
- Gear up for safety and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid looking directly into UV lighting.
- Be aware of ticks & other wildlife.
For more detailed outdoor safety information, refer to the “Safety Tips for General Outdoor Hazards” document included in your volunteer package here. Additionally, you can access The Land Between’s safety training and quizzes here.
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moths Matter!
- Ecosystem Role: Moths are essential as both pollinators and a food source in ecosystems.
- Monitoring moth populations helps scientists to determine whether or not an ecosystem is healthy.
- Nutrient Cycling: Through their life cycle, moths help to break down organic material that enriches soil health and plant growth.
- Bio-Indicators: Moths serve as indicators of ecosystem health, monitoring their populations helps scientists determine the overall condition of an ecosystem.
- A diverse & abundant moth population signals a balanced environment, while a small or shrinking population may point to ecological issues
Next
Moths Matter!
- Food Web Support: As a primary food source for many species, moths play a crucial role in the food web.
- Especially for at-risk animals like the Eastern Whip-poor-will and Common Nighthawk (both found in The Land Between).
- Population Trends: Many insect populations, including moths, have declined in recent decades.
- Monitoring these downward trends helps us understand why they are happening and informs conservation strategies.
- Fun for the Whole Family: Discover new skills and experience nature like never before.
- Plus, spending time outdoors is a great way to boost your mental and physical well-being.
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth Monitoring
What Do Moth Monitors Do?
Moth Monitors play a key role in citizen science, contributing to our understanding of nature!
Setting up a moth monitoring station is fun for all ages, making it a perfect way to involve both children and adults in scientific exploration.
Next
Moth Monitoring
Your Observations Matter!
The data gathered by Moth Monitors like you is crucial for studying moth species, tracking populations, and assessing biodiversity, all of which reveal important information about ecosystem health. Moths are a vital food source for many species, and high diversity among moths typically signals a balanced environment.
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
When to Monitor
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth MonitoringMaterials
To start moth monitoring you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment—most items can probably be found at your house. But if you need to, you can borrow a Moth Monitoring kit from our office.
If you need to borrow a Moth Monitoring kit, you can pick it up at: The Land Between office at 235 Highland Street, Suite 101, Haliburton.
Next
Monitoring Kit Contents
Next
Monitoring Kit Contents
Next
Light Source Information
To attract moths, you need a UV-A blacklight with a wavelength of 395nm. Wattage isn’t a reliable measure of strength, but the correct wavelength is crucial. You can find UV-A blacklights online or in some hardware stores. Alternatively, you can rent equipment by emailing us at citizensciencetlb@gmail.com
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Tips for a Successful Survey
Initially, setting up the settling surface may be tricky, the most important thing is that the surface is vertical and off the ground.
Set up before the sampling time so that the UV-A blacklight can be turned on as close to the half hour before sunset as possible.
Record preliminary data and fill out survey area parameters, before turning on the blacklight.
Note the Name/Team Name, Date, Location, and GPS Coordinates on the data sheet.Complete these sections while it's still light enough to capture habitat details.
We need to interact with one another. We learn in a collaborative way.
We avoid being part of the content overload in the digital world.
You can hang a sheet between two objects (e.g., trees), or rest a hard surface on a chair or easel. You could also nail the surface to a wood post, etc.
If sunset at your location is 7:30 PM, you can turn on the light source at 7:00 PM and leave it on until 8:00 PM. In this case, you would want your station set up by 7:20.
Next
Setting up a Moth Monitoring Station
Prepare the settling surface
Record survey details on monitoring sheet
Set up the UV-A blacklight
Take at least 5 photos of the settling surface
Measure the distance from the light source to the settling surface
Monitoring final steps
Turn on blacklight to start monitoring for moths!
Upload data and photos
Next
The purple represents the % illumination. Which monitoring set up is correct?
Next
The purple represents the % illumination. Which monitoring set up is correct?
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth ID and Data Completion
After each survey, use your photos to count the number of moths on your moth settling surface, categorize them by size and include this information on your data sheet. You then have the option to try and identify the moths you “captured” in your photos. Learning to identify common moth families in Ontario can be a great way to connect with nature and learn something new!
Next
Understanding your Data
Page 1
Page 2
Next
Your Data Matters!
By tracking moth numbers and types, you help reveal patterns in ecosystem health. This data supports conservation and policy decisions and offers critical insights into nocturnal insect populations. Thank you for joining us on this journey to support conservation!
Next
Uploading Data
How to Upload On the Computer:
Uploading the data to our website is easy. Just copy the field sheets into the online form. Otherwise you can scan or photograph the data sheets and email them to us!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Don't forget to hit the submit button at the bottom of the form!
Next
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Citations
iNaturalist. "Lepidoptera." iNaturalist, https://inaturalist.ca/taxa/47157-Lepidoptera. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. EMEC Ecology. "Butterfly, Moth, and Dragonfly Surveys." EMEC Ecology, https://emec-ecology.co.uk/surveys/butterfly-moth-and-dragonfly-surveys/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. Ontario Moths. Ontario Moths. https://ontariomoths.wordpress.com/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. The Land Between. Moth Monitors Guidebook 2023. The Land Between, 2023, https://www.thelandbetween.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Moth-Monitors-Guidebook-2023.pdf. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. “Moths.” USDA Forest Service - Celebrating Wildflowers, https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/pollinators/animals/moths.shtml. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
Click the next button to finish the module!
Next
Lighting Safety
- Avoid Direct Contact with UV Light, UV-A lighting used to attract moths can harm your eyes, so do not look directly at the light source.
- Be aware of your surroundings, make sure your area is free of tripping hazards, and use a flashlight when walking to and from your setup as needed.
Want to learn more about moths and insects? Check out these educational videos on YouTube:
- Why Moths are Obsessed with Lamps
- What is an Entomologist?
- Watch This Caterpillar Turn Into A Hawk-Moth
- Difference between Moths and Butterflies
- 21 Most Incredible Moth Species
- Introduction to Entomology
Simply search for these titles on YouTube for fascinating insights into the world of moths and insects to help deepen your understanding of moths and their place in the ecosystem!
3. Monitoring Time
- Begin about 30 minutes before sunset and finish 30 minutes after sunset. However you can monitor into the evening hours if you like.
- You can use the National Research Council of Canada’s Sun Calculator to check sunset times for your area.
4. Monitoring Frequency
- You can monitor as often as you like, but more frequent surveys give better data.
- Aiming for once or twice a week provides reliable information for our research.
Correct. Your light source is the perfect distance from your settling surface, causing the light to illuminate all of your settling surface.
There are many excellent moth identification books and websites available online as well as a Moth Identification Key created by The Land Between.
- If you are choosing to identify the moths you have “captured”, we recommend trying to ID to the family level as anything further becomes complicated and difficult to see.
Don’t worry if you can’t identify many or any of the moths, there are so many different kinds and moth scientists are still trying to learn them all! Here are some helpful resources for identifying moths:
- Ontario Moths Website: A comprehensive resource to help you identify Ontario moths.
- Moths and Butterflies of Ontario: A guide to moth species commonly found in Ontario.
- iNaturalist smartphone app: HIGHLY recommended for new surveyors! Let the app identify photos for you, and join the Moths of Ontario Project on iNaturalist to gain help from the mothing community with identification.
1. Monitoring Season
- Moth Monitoring runs from May to the October.
- Start when night temperatures are above 10°C, as moths are more active in warmer weather.
2. Best Conditions for Monitoring
- Ideal nights are warm, calm, with some cloud cover.
- Avoid strong winds and heavy rain, mist, snow, or fog.
- Avoid surveying around the full moon, since the light from the moon will distract moths from your UV light.
Prepare the Settling Surface
Position surface vertically and at least 50 cm above the ground (slight angle is okay). Attach a tape measure to the surface with visible numbers to help estimate moth sizes.
- Avoid glossy backgrounds to prevent reflection interference.
This is an example of a clickable image
Measure the Distance
Use your measuring tape to measure the distance between the light source and the moth settling surface. Record this distance on the Monitoring Sheet.
Safety around Insects & Wildlife
- When observing moths or other insects, refrain from handling them to avoid stings or bites and to protect the insects themselves.
- Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings—after spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself for ticks and remain cautious of any nocturnal animals that may be nearby.
Set up the UV-A Blacklight
Shine the blacklight at the settling surface and make sure the light illuminates at least 75% of the surface (optimal distance: 5–10 ft). Adjust distance or angle as needed to make sure the surface is always well-lit and the blacklight is stationary. This is where the UV-A blacklight must remain throughout your survey.
Uploading Data and Photos
Use the online form on the Moth Monitors page of The Land Between’s website to upload your data and photos.
- Ensure that all relevant information is recorded on your data sheet before submission.
Make sure to fully complete your data sheet!
- Even if you only saw a few insects, every little bit of data helps us understand them better!
Setting up early ensures you have time to test the light illumination, fill out your data sheet and fix any errors that may come up! Since our setup is dependant on the UV-A blacklight source being brighter than the surrounding light sources, it is best to put your settling surface in a location away from house lights or street lamps.
Incorrect. Your light source is too far from your settling surface and is causing the light to be too widely diminished or spread out. To fix this move the light source closer to the settling surface so that the light is more focused and darker on the settling surface.
Monitoring Final Steps
Double-check that the photos are clear and usable for counting and identifying individual moths. These photos will be what you use to count and identify the “captured” insects on your moth settling surface. After completing the survey, record the End Time, Temperature, Wind Level, & Cloud Cover in the “Survey Details” section of the data sheet. Turn off the UV-A blacklight and carefully dismantle your survey site without disturbing any insects.
Turn on the UV-A Blacklight
The blacklight should stay on and light up the moth settling surface for 1 hour in total.
- 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunset.
You can choose to stay outside for the full hour, OR you can return to the survey site after an hour has passed.
Preventing Insect Bites
- Wear appropriate clothing such as long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes to minimize exposure.
- Light-colored clothes and insect repellent can help reduce attraction and provide added protection.
- If you're particularly sensitive, consider using a protective bug net or jacket for extra defense.
Correct! Your light source is the perfect distance from your settling surface, causing the light to illuminate most (over 75%) of your settling surface. In general, more UV light coverage is better.
Take Photos of the Settling Surface
After you've had your survey area lit up for 1 hour (or 30 minutes after sunset) then begin taking photos of the moth settling surface.
- Use a non-UV-A flashlight or headlamp with white light when taking all photos, and enable your cameras flash for clearer images.
Take a minimum of 5 photos, including:
- Mandatory: 1 wide shot of the entire moth settling surface/survey site,
- Mandatory: 4 photos, split the survey surface/sheet into four equal quadrants and take a closer photo of each quadrants
- Optional, highly recommended for new surveyors: unlimited photos, take close-up shots of any individual moths (place a ruler parallel to the moth's total body length)
- These photos will greatly help to identify moths, and can be used in correlation with idenficiation apps such as iNaturalist.
Don't forget to submit all the pictures you take with your data.
Record Survey Details
Before starting your survey, fill out the “General Information and Survey Location” sections of the Moth Monitoring sheets while it is still light out.In the “Survey Details” section of your data sheet, record the start time, temperature, wind level, & cloud cover.
- To take the temperature you can use a thermometer or a weather app, but ensure you are not using the “feels like” temperature.
A new monitoring sheet must be filled out every time you survey and for each survey site.
Flashlights and BulbsHere are some links to recommended blacklight flashlights, and bulbs.Alternatively, you can rent equipment by emailing us at citizensciencetlb@gmail.com
Link
Link
The Land Between provides a Dichotomous Key for Moth Monitors. If you're new to dichotomous keys, you might find these tutorials helpful:
- Dichotomous Keys: Identification Achievement Unlocked
- Insect Anatomy - Entomology
Once your data sheet is complete, it's time to submit!
- Use the online reporting form to upload your data and attach your photos at the highest quality possible.
Thank you for being part of Moth Monitors and helping us protect these important insects! Together, we’re making a valuable contribution to conservation.
Incorrect. The light source is too close to the settling surface and is causing the light to be too narrowly focused. To correct this, move your light source further from the settling surface.
Moth Monitoring Data SheetsUse these sheets to record all your observations during the survey. Remember to submit your data online after you're done to share your findings with our research team! Download the Moth Monitoring Data Sheet below,
Link
5. Recording Your Observations
- Always record how often you survey on your data sheets.
- Survey in the same location each time for consistency.
- If you miss a week, make a note of it on your data sheet.
6. Stay Safe
- Remember, your safety always comes first!
Moth Monitors Training
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Transcript
Welcome to
Moth Monitor Training!
A program of The Land Between
Start Learning!
Training Modules are interactive presentations that allow you to complete activities and answer questions as you learn about your volunteer program!
There are several different ways you will be able to interact with this module. On any given page you will see all or some of the buttons below. Hover your mouse over each button to see what they do and how you can use them to navigate in this module.
When you are finished, click the NEXT button at the bottom right of the page.
Next
Sometimes content or options will not appear until you have explored all the content on the page or completed the activity. For example, often the Button will not appear until you have completed an activity or clicked on all images that reveal content on a given page.
Next
You will see this image on the bottom of the screen throughout the module. This explorer will be your guide and helper as you work through the module. You can click on them for help if you get stuck, or for more information!
Next
All clickable images will have one of these symbols on or next to them. Some images will also expand to show you they are clickable. If an image expands and/or pulses, you can click directly on it. If it does not expand and/or pulse, use the symbol to access the content.
Clickable Image Example:
If you have any issues, you can contact us! Send an email to volunteers@thelandbetween.ca or give us a call at (705) 457-1222
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
Click the next button to start learning!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Warning
There are dangers in these volunteer activities. Please participate at your own discretion.
Next
Considerations for Data Collection
Data on Species at Risk is sensitive and can't be shared without permission from The Land Between Charity.
This information is confidential and must remain private to protect vulnerable species.
By volunteering with The Land Between, you agree to help protect Ontario species and keep moth observations, and other information confidential.
I Understand and agree
Safety Guidelines
For more detailed outdoor safety information, refer to the “Safety Tips for General Outdoor Hazards” document included in your volunteer package here. Additionally, you can access The Land Between’s safety training and quizzes here.
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moths Matter!
Next
Moths Matter!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth Monitoring
What Do Moth Monitors Do?
Moth Monitors play a key role in citizen science, contributing to our understanding of nature!
Setting up a moth monitoring station is fun for all ages, making it a perfect way to involve both children and adults in scientific exploration.
Next
Moth Monitoring
Your Observations Matter!
The data gathered by Moth Monitors like you is crucial for studying moth species, tracking populations, and assessing biodiversity, all of which reveal important information about ecosystem health. Moths are a vital food source for many species, and high diversity among moths typically signals a balanced environment.
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
When to Monitor
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth MonitoringMaterials
To start moth monitoring you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment—most items can probably be found at your house. But if you need to, you can borrow a Moth Monitoring kit from our office.
If you need to borrow a Moth Monitoring kit, you can pick it up at: The Land Between office at 235 Highland Street, Suite 101, Haliburton.
Next
Monitoring Kit Contents
Next
Monitoring Kit Contents
Next
Light Source Information
To attract moths, you need a UV-A blacklight with a wavelength of 395nm. Wattage isn’t a reliable measure of strength, but the correct wavelength is crucial. You can find UV-A blacklights online or in some hardware stores. Alternatively, you can rent equipment by emailing us at citizensciencetlb@gmail.com
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Test Your Knowledge!
True or False?
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Tips for a Successful Survey
Initially, setting up the settling surface may be tricky, the most important thing is that the surface is vertical and off the ground.
Set up before the sampling time so that the UV-A blacklight can be turned on as close to the half hour before sunset as possible.
Record preliminary data and fill out survey area parameters, before turning on the blacklight.
Note the Name/Team Name, Date, Location, and GPS Coordinates on the data sheet.Complete these sections while it's still light enough to capture habitat details.
We need to interact with one another. We learn in a collaborative way.
We avoid being part of the content overload in the digital world.
You can hang a sheet between two objects (e.g., trees), or rest a hard surface on a chair or easel. You could also nail the surface to a wood post, etc.
If sunset at your location is 7:30 PM, you can turn on the light source at 7:00 PM and leave it on until 8:00 PM. In this case, you would want your station set up by 7:20.
Next
Setting up a Moth Monitoring Station
Prepare the settling surface
Record survey details on monitoring sheet
Set up the UV-A blacklight
Take at least 5 photos of the settling surface
Measure the distance from the light source to the settling surface
Monitoring final steps
Turn on blacklight to start monitoring for moths!
Upload data and photos
Next
The purple represents the % illumination. Which monitoring set up is correct?
Next
The purple represents the % illumination. Which monitoring set up is correct?
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Moth ID and Data Completion
After each survey, use your photos to count the number of moths on your moth settling surface, categorize them by size and include this information on your data sheet. You then have the option to try and identify the moths you “captured” in your photos. Learning to identify common moth families in Ontario can be a great way to connect with nature and learn something new!
Next
Understanding your Data
Page 1
Page 2
Next
Your Data Matters!
By tracking moth numbers and types, you help reveal patterns in ecosystem health. This data supports conservation and policy decisions and offers critical insights into nocturnal insect populations. Thank you for joining us on this journey to support conservation!
Next
Uploading Data
How to Upload On the Computer:
Uploading the data to our website is easy. Just copy the field sheets into the online form. Otherwise you can scan or photograph the data sheets and email them to us!
Next
Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
Next
Don't forget to hit the submit button at the bottom of the form!
Next
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Module Menu
1. Warning & Considerations
6. Test your Knoweldge!
2. Moths Matter
7. Monitoring Materials
8. Test your Knowledge!
3. Test your Knoweldge!
4. Moth Monitoring
9. Monitoring Protocol & Activity
10. Understanding the Data
5. When to Monitor?
11. Module Completion Form
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Citations
iNaturalist. "Lepidoptera." iNaturalist, https://inaturalist.ca/taxa/47157-Lepidoptera. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. EMEC Ecology. "Butterfly, Moth, and Dragonfly Surveys." EMEC Ecology, https://emec-ecology.co.uk/surveys/butterfly-moth-and-dragonfly-surveys/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. Ontario Moths. Ontario Moths. https://ontariomoths.wordpress.com/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. The Land Between. Moth Monitors Guidebook 2023. The Land Between, 2023, https://www.thelandbetween.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Moth-Monitors-Guidebook-2023.pdf. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. “Moths.” USDA Forest Service - Celebrating Wildflowers, https://www.fs.usda.gov/wildflowers/pollinators/animals/moths.shtml. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
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Lighting Safety
Want to learn more about moths and insects? Check out these educational videos on YouTube:
- Why Moths are Obsessed with Lamps
- What is an Entomologist?
- Watch This Caterpillar Turn Into A Hawk-Moth
- Difference between Moths and Butterflies
- 21 Most Incredible Moth Species
- Introduction to Entomology
Simply search for these titles on YouTube for fascinating insights into the world of moths and insects to help deepen your understanding of moths and their place in the ecosystem!3. Monitoring Time
- You can use the National Research Council of Canada’s Sun Calculator to check sunset times for your area.
4. Monitoring FrequencyCorrect. Your light source is the perfect distance from your settling surface, causing the light to illuminate all of your settling surface.
There are many excellent moth identification books and websites available online as well as a Moth Identification Key created by The Land Between.
- If you are choosing to identify the moths you have “captured”, we recommend trying to ID to the family level as anything further becomes complicated and difficult to see.
Don’t worry if you can’t identify many or any of the moths, there are so many different kinds and moth scientists are still trying to learn them all! Here are some helpful resources for identifying moths:1. Monitoring Season
- Moth Monitoring runs from May to the October.
- Start when night temperatures are above 10°C, as moths are more active in warmer weather.
2. Best Conditions for MonitoringPrepare the Settling Surface
Position surface vertically and at least 50 cm above the ground (slight angle is okay). Attach a tape measure to the surface with visible numbers to help estimate moth sizes.
This is an example of a clickable image
Measure the Distance
Use your measuring tape to measure the distance between the light source and the moth settling surface. Record this distance on the Monitoring Sheet.
Safety around Insects & Wildlife
Set up the UV-A Blacklight
Shine the blacklight at the settling surface and make sure the light illuminates at least 75% of the surface (optimal distance: 5–10 ft). Adjust distance or angle as needed to make sure the surface is always well-lit and the blacklight is stationary. This is where the UV-A blacklight must remain throughout your survey.
Uploading Data and Photos
Use the online form on the Moth Monitors page of The Land Between’s website to upload your data and photos.
- Ensure that all relevant information is recorded on your data sheet before submission.
Make sure to fully complete your data sheet!Setting up early ensures you have time to test the light illumination, fill out your data sheet and fix any errors that may come up! Since our setup is dependant on the UV-A blacklight source being brighter than the surrounding light sources, it is best to put your settling surface in a location away from house lights or street lamps.
Incorrect. Your light source is too far from your settling surface and is causing the light to be too widely diminished or spread out. To fix this move the light source closer to the settling surface so that the light is more focused and darker on the settling surface.
Monitoring Final Steps
Double-check that the photos are clear and usable for counting and identifying individual moths. These photos will be what you use to count and identify the “captured” insects on your moth settling surface. After completing the survey, record the End Time, Temperature, Wind Level, & Cloud Cover in the “Survey Details” section of the data sheet. Turn off the UV-A blacklight and carefully dismantle your survey site without disturbing any insects.
Turn on the UV-A Blacklight
The blacklight should stay on and light up the moth settling surface for 1 hour in total.
- 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunset.
You can choose to stay outside for the full hour, OR you can return to the survey site after an hour has passed.Preventing Insect Bites
Correct! Your light source is the perfect distance from your settling surface, causing the light to illuminate most (over 75%) of your settling surface. In general, more UV light coverage is better.
Take Photos of the Settling Surface
After you've had your survey area lit up for 1 hour (or 30 minutes after sunset) then begin taking photos of the moth settling surface.
- Use a non-UV-A flashlight or headlamp with white light when taking all photos, and enable your cameras flash for clearer images.
Take a minimum of 5 photos, including:- Optional, highly recommended for new surveyors: unlimited photos, take close-up shots of any individual moths (place a ruler parallel to the moth's total body length)
- These photos will greatly help to identify moths, and can be used in correlation with idenficiation apps such as iNaturalist.
Don't forget to submit all the pictures you take with your data.Record Survey Details
Before starting your survey, fill out the “General Information and Survey Location” sections of the Moth Monitoring sheets while it is still light out.In the “Survey Details” section of your data sheet, record the start time, temperature, wind level, & cloud cover.
- To take the temperature you can use a thermometer or a weather app, but ensure you are not using the “feels like” temperature.
A new monitoring sheet must be filled out every time you survey and for each survey site.Flashlights and BulbsHere are some links to recommended blacklight flashlights, and bulbs.Alternatively, you can rent equipment by emailing us at citizensciencetlb@gmail.com
Link
Link
The Land Between provides a Dichotomous Key for Moth Monitors. If you're new to dichotomous keys, you might find these tutorials helpful:
- Dichotomous Keys: Identification Achievement Unlocked
- Insect Anatomy - Entomology
Once your data sheet is complete, it's time to submit!- Use the online reporting form to upload your data and attach your photos at the highest quality possible.
Thank you for being part of Moth Monitors and helping us protect these important insects! Together, we’re making a valuable contribution to conservation.Incorrect. The light source is too close to the settling surface and is causing the light to be too narrowly focused. To correct this, move your light source further from the settling surface.
Moth Monitoring Data SheetsUse these sheets to record all your observations during the survey. Remember to submit your data online after you're done to share your findings with our research team! Download the Moth Monitoring Data Sheet below,
Link
5. Recording Your Observations
- Always record how often you survey on your data sheets.
- Survey in the same location each time for consistency.
- If you miss a week, make a note of it on your data sheet.
6. Stay Safe