I came across this mating pair of Oak Eggar moths at Agden Side, near High Bradfield. They were actually copulating on the footpath, so I decided to move them to nearby vegetation for their own safety. Once I had picked them up, they seemed reluctant to leave the warmth of my hand!
The male moth is the darker individual, closest to the camera. Males can be easily distinguished by their large, feathery antennae which they use to pick up the scent of unmated females.
Whilst I was photographing these two in flagrante delicto, a second male arrived and tried, unsuccessfully, to dislodge the first.
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lovely composition. the moths's fur is stunning.
Posted by: Interesting Pictures | Monday, 11 July 2011 at 05:06 AM