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11 types of day-flying moth in the UK: an identification guide
The UK is home to a number of moths that are active during the day, many of which rival butterflies for colour and beauty. Which species might you encounter on a summer's walk?
Amy Lewis • 23 Apr 2021
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Trees woods and wildlife
Juniper
A cosy home for wildlife and a gin-drinker’s delight, the juniper is a much-loved evergreen that brightens up the winter months.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Cypress, Lawson
Tall ornamental with feathery foliage. One of the UK’s most popular garden conifers, Lawson cypress has rot-resistant wood which is popular in Japan for coffins and shrines.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Wayfaring tree
A welcome sign you’re homeward bound, the wayfaring tree is so named because it grows close to paths. Look for them in hedges and woodland edges, with full bloom in the spring and heavy with berries in the autumn.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Swan’s-neck thyme-moss
Elegant and damp. Swan's-neck thyme-moss is one of our most common mosses. Lush green with bright green new growth in the spring.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Jelly ear
Velvety and a little disconcerting, the jelly ear looks just like an ear growing off decaying branches.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Morel
Highly prized and easily recognised, the morel is a favourite edible mushroom. It has a strong, nutty flavour and a pleasant, earthy smell and grows in a variety of habitats, including well-drained woodland. But beware, it is poisonous when raw.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Meadow foxtail
Upright and bushy-tailed, meadow foxtail is a charming addition to any meadow. It provides food and habitats for a variety of invertebrates, including the caterpillars of the Essex skipper butterfly.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Oakbug milkcap
Stinky and unimpressive. Oakbug milkcap is a dull-looking fungus that is easily missed in woodland among its more spectacular cousins. It is edible, though is not to everyone’s taste, and is said to have an oily smell, similar to bed bugs. Yum.
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Trees woods and wildlife
Privet hawk-moth
Gentle giants of the moth world. These strong fliers are brightly coloured as both caterpillars and adults, going from vibrant green to blushing pink.