Jersey Tiger moths in London

[Ida]

I live in Brockley, SE4, and I've been seeing quite a few Jersey Tiger moths around here for the last three summers. They've also been spotted on The London Wildlife Trust reserve in nearby Forest Hill, SE23.

I know their range has previously been restricted to parts of the South Coast and the Channel Islands, and I've heard a couple of theories about their sudden appearance in this area: they've been bred in captivity and released; or they've travelled along the railway lines.

Does anyone know why they've turned up here, and have they appeared in any other parts of the country where they've not previously been seen?

I saw a newly-emerged one in a drainage hole in my neighbour's wall this afternoon, so here's a couple of photos.

[Wild-Woman]

I have no idea how they've arrived here but I should think they've made a welcome addition to the mainland fauna.

[Ida]

You're right - they are rather beautiful. I'm always pleased when I spot one.

[Susie]

Hello Ida,

My understanding is that the Jersey Tigers in and around London are captive bred and released, but no one can prove this.

They are a great sight, aren't they?!

[Ida]

Thanks, Susie

I wonder why someone would do that?

[wildlifesnapper]

Hi

they think they are doing them a favour by letting them go "free"

Not a good idea though.

neil

[aeshna5]

They are stunning moths- hopefully they'll spread around the london area. i know they've been around Forest Hill area for a few years now. i believe we've had 1 at the london Wetland Centre.

[Ida]

Like I said, there seems to be no shortage of them around here, so if you've seen one, I'm sure its friends are on their way.

They're pretty active during the day, so that combined with their stand-out-from-the-crowd colouring make then very easy to spot.

[maggot at toad hall]

It's wonderful that someone has seen this moth. Butterflies and Moths are a bit low in numbers this year. In past years, the Jersey Tiger moth has been a frequent migrant to my courtyard garden, but I do live in Devon in the south west of England. I haven't seen any yet this year, but I'm always hopeful and there's still plenty time as they are usually flying about July to September.