Moths are often misunderstood, but they hold vital roles in the wildlife ecosystem.

Although many people overlook them, moths are numerous and widespread, with over 2,500 species in Britain living in a wide range of habitats.

Since 1900 there have been 51 moth extinctions in Britain. Others that were considered extinct have since recolonised or been re-found.
The abundance of the UK’s larger moths has decreased significantly during the past 50 years with three species becoming extinct since 2000.
The State of Britain’s Larger Moths 2021 report found that over two-thirds of common and widespread larger species (macro-moths) declined in the last 50 years. These losses in abundance were much greater in the southern half of Britain than the north.

Identify a moth

Spotted a moth but not sure which one? Use our handy ID page to find out.

If you know which moth you would like more information on, use our butterfly A to Z to explore some of the more common moths you could find.

Want to find out more about recording moths and how to submit your sightings.

Moths play a vital role in telling us about the health of our environment, like the canary in the coalmine.

Moths are valuable pollinators that need our help. They play an important role in the garden ecosystem, so it’s vital that we make homes for them.

Read our influential report, with results from our world-leading recording and monitoring schemes.