Tags
insect, Morton Arboretum, moth, nature, nature art, photography, pleinair, prairie, Schulenberg prairie, sketch, sketchbook
Last night I participated in a moth survey at the Schulenberg Prairie where I sketch and volunteer. Conditions were not ideal, windy to start and a rain squall went through, however, we persevered and set up under the visitor station and waited.
I’ve always loved moths, but will admit that “bigger was always better” even as a child. As tiny moths, and mosquitoes, started drifting in, the enthusiasm of Trevor and Jeff, our experienced leaders, as they photographed and identified each one was contagious. Bending down, angling the light just right, praying your subject wouldn’t take fright, trying not to breathe as you take the shot, and rushing to the next one before it flew away were steps that were repeated over and over. As the night wore on, larger moths flew in, Tiger and Sphinx moths, capped off with a brief appearance by a Polyphemus moth, one of my favorites. I photographed over 25 moths in a 2 hour span, but I’m sure there were more as I sketched some of them as well.
I’m humbled, awed, and reminded anew over how much I have to learn about this amazing world that God has created . Even tiny moths that are usually unseen have beautiful patterns, camouflaging colors and interesting shapes if you stop long enough to notice and pay attention. Such a beautiful tapestry that God has woven, using both the large, flashy creatures as well as the small, overlooked ones, all of which play their own role in this prairie habitat. Enjoy!
Karen's Nature Art 
Fascinating photos! Is the prairie considered a prime place for different moth species? I confess I have not seen some of the ones you photographed. Maybe it’s just as you say, “an unseen world”!
That’s one of the reasons we did the survey-to find out what lives there! Moths live in many different habitats, so it’s fun to figure out what lives where.
What an adventure, Karen! I love your description and the photos. Looking forward to seeing your work tomorrow at Brushwood’s pollinator exhibit.
Thanks, Barbara-hope to see you there!
Really nice pictures. Great adventure.Linn
Thanks, Linn!
Very Cool!
Yes, it was eye opening!
These creatures are all remarkable! Thanks for sharing them. The entire project seems challenging but surely unique!!!! So glad you could do it, Karen!
Thanks, Marilyn! It was an amazing time and I can’t wait to do it again!
I would love to do this one day! What variety of colour, pattern and size there is in these moths. Thank you for sharing your night with the moths!
I hope you get the chance, especially with someone who is knowledgeable. It makes all the difference!
Thank you for helping with the survey! Love your photos — they came out so well! Grateful to have you on the “moth” team.
I’m glad you initiated the project and I’m looking forward to the next one!
That’s just fantastic, Karen. Wow! I have admitted here before that I am freaked out by moths and many insects. However, when I am on this blog, you make it all better!
Oh good, glad to hear you don’t mind hearing about moths!