FOPOS Evening Moth Survey // 7.21.25

Join FOPOS's stewardship team for an evening moth survey at the Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve. Moths are fascinating creatures and contribute vital ecosystem services as pollinators and as prey, especially so for baby birds, which primarily rely on caterpillars and other insects for food.

During this session, participants will observe, identify, and learn more about these mysterious night creatures. The program will begin with an educational presentation about moths, led by Patrick Natale, Assistant Professor of Biology at Mercer County Community College, followed by a hands-on activity where participants will log biodiversity data at the Preserve.

During the survey, FOPOS will set up a 'light trap' along a woodland border near the Mountain Lakes House. There, participants will be able to view moths, help ID them, and log moth species to create a database and help capture biodiversity data. Participants will have the opportunity to gather data and take photos of various species observed. When you RSVP, FOPOS will send you more information, including a link to a free App that we will be using to collaborate during the event.

Please note, this event is geared towards those ages 12+ as it is an evening event and will involve walking outside in the dusk and dark.