Tim Dyson: Night Vision Photography

The Noctuidae or owlet moths have eyes that "glow" or reflect light in the dark.

Often with striking colour patterns and wing shapes, these moths make one wonder what they see and why they are patterned so exquisitely.

Certainly they have a keen sense of smell and can detect the sweet smell of fermenting tree sap or ripe fruit. A home-made mix of brown sugar, fruit and maple syrup will lure a great throng of thirsty visitors on a warm summer/fall evening. They imbibe the sweet moisture through a thin red brown proboscis or feeding tube, usually coiled beneath the head.

Getting a great photo is often a lesson in patience as these beauties also have an acute sense of hearing and are quick to flit away at the snap of a dry twig.

Take some quiet trips with Tim along a "sugared trail" in the Peterborough woods. We're looking for Noctuidae and any of their "other fans" along the way.