Luna moths on the nightshift

The Warm Ants project consists of many mini projects taking place within the chambers. One of these projects is a 24-hour baiting, which means that we must observe which ants are attracted to tuna baits set out in the different temperature chambers for all hours of the day, on the hour.

Two of us – Margaurete and Adam – took the night shift from 10pm to 6am, and encountered an unexpected visitor. While waiting near the shed to continue the data collecting, a large insect flew right into us, startling the stillness of the night. As it landed, we were so surprised to see a large Luna moth flying towards the light of the shed. Disoriented, the Luna moth stayed in our hands until the rare beauty joined the other insects attracted to the light by the shed. Later on, a second Luna moth joined it, and we were able to enjoy the moths through most of the night. It was a great experience to be able to see and interact with the two beautiful moths in the forests, and a first experience for both of us!