Observation date: January 16, 2021
Submitted by: Uberhoust
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Image 20 meters past the entrance in a small abandoned mine at about 250-300 meters in elevation. Moths found hibernating? on walls of mine near the extent of the twilight zone. Unlike caves in the area the mine had no significant air movement and would likely never freeze. No moths located lower than 4' (1.25meters) above the floor. Relative humidity near or at 100% with some condensed water droplets on the rocks. One moth moved after being disturbed by the lights. All moths, estimate 200 in zone assumed the same position with wings spread out. Moths typically spaced out with about 10-20 per meter squared. Estimate wing tip to wingtip span at 4 to 5 cm +- 1 cm. Photo is with tightest group of 3 individuals most spaced further. Picture with poor quality cell phone camera, lighting with Petzl LED headlamp held off axis, color rendition is likely very poor.
Status: Resident
Verified by: davidwdroppers
Verified date: January 17, 2021
Coordinator notes: Much appreciated notes. These moths were indeed hibernating.
