Noticing nature from dawn to dusk
Wonderful wildlife at dawn
Become an expert bug catcher
Have you ever noticed how moths just love flying towards the light, especially on a summer evening when you have your windows open? Observing these curious creatures is easy with our step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Hang a sheet
Hang up an old, light-coloured bed sheet vertically outside on a summer evening when it’s dry and not too windy. You could hang it up on a washing line, on a hedge or a tree.
Step 2: Find a light source
Any type of light works to attract moths. You could use a torch, garden lamp or the light from a phone. For best results, make sure that your light is bright enough to illuminate most of the sheet.
Step 3: Light up the sheet and wait for moths
Turn on your light and direct it towards your sheet – moths should begin arriving almost right away. You could bring a camera to take photos to find out which moths are in your garden.
We were inspired by similar activities from BBC's Springwatch and Science Friday. Check out their websites at the bottom of the page for more fun summer activities to get closer to nature.
According to our survey:
- 93% of people notice the change in seasons
- 36% of people would say they're an 'early bird'
- 42% of people would say they're a 'night owl'

Podcast: Things that go click in the night
In this podcast episode, presenter Jo Dyson gets a masterclass in night time photography from astrophotographer, Steven Hanna. Listen to discover how you can use your camera to shed light on the secrets of the night.