Moth Survey Nights
Most of us know that bees do the vital work of pollinating flowers during the day, but did you know that moths also pollinate by day and night, depending on the species? Join us to see the beautiful multitude of moths that inhabit the chalk downland.
- Booking essential
As our conservation work at White Cliffs continues, we need to know more about the moth species and we're running a series of moth surveys. Some moth species are only active, or more active at night, so we'll be joining them when the White Cliffs are normally deserted. The moths are attracted by a cold light and are not harmed during the survey. After they've been identified and counted, they are released to carry on their important work. Moth expert, Kevin Button will be co-leading the events with Mel Wrigley, and will help you identify the moths and tell you about their habits. Kevin has been recording here for c8 years. This is also your opportunity to share your knowledge of moths. Numbers are limited and booking is essential. The events are likely to continue beyond midnight, as this is when the moths are most active. However, you can leave at any time during the event. Just tell the organiser that you would like to exit, so that the car park gate can be opened. Part of our Summer of Play programme. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| All Admission | £0.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 03442491895
- Suitability
Supervised children welcome.
- Meeting point
Meet on level 3 car park at the event time.
- What to bring and wear
Please bring a torch or headtorch, stout closed-toe shoes or walking boots and plenty of layers as it gets cold in the countryside at night. Bring a moth identification book if you have one.
- Accessibility
The moths are most active in undisturbed areas, and most of our surveys are therefore off-path. Please be aware that the ground is uneven and there are steps between some moth traps. These events may not be suited to those who have restricted mobility.
- Other
No dogs, please. For events that start after 7 pm, someone will be at the main gate to check your booking and let you through. Please park in level 3 car park, where we will meet. We advise you to bring a camping chair, a kneeling pad, a flask of hot drink and snacks. The grass may get wet during the night with dew, so some waterproof overtrousers may be useful. In the event of rain or strong winds, or if lightning is forecast, the moths will not fly and the event will not go ahead. Please check Facebook and the event page on the website 24 hours before the event and before setting out. Toilet facilities are limited. Please visit the toilet before joining the event.
Upcoming events
World Ranger Day - Be a Ranger for the Morning (for families)
Join a short, free, guided walk with our friendly Ecologist/Ranger, Mel, searching for bugs. Hear how we care for chalk meadow plants and animals, and collect litter as we go.
Guided walk: Folklore, Wildlife and Medicinal uses of Chalk Downland Plants
Join our ecologist, Mel, as she takes you on a tour of discovery, stopping to take a closer look at the veritable treasure chest of natural medicines surrounding us.
World Lizard Day - A Family Rrreptile Rrramble
Lizards and slowworms are notoriously elusive, timid creatures, but not if you know where to look! Join our ecologist, Mel, as we go on a quiet walk in search of signs of lizards and slowworms. And you never know - we might find some!
Rock Stars - Geology for Beginners (for families)
Join Geo-ecologist Mel as she takes you on a guided walk and field trip of discovery. Find out what chalk is made of. Where does flint come from, and how does it find its way into chalk? Learn how the Dover Strait was formed and try some experiments.