Tony James' photos with the keyword: Early

Noctuidae, Cuculliinae Wingspan: 34mm. In the UK this is generally a common Spring species, so it was rather surprising to see one of these come to our trap in November. Just one was recorded here, so it may be that it was an early individual triggered to emerge early.

Geometridae, Ennominae Wingspan 28-46mm. A commonly occurring species throughout the UK, and widespread in Cornwall. Characteristically, it rests with its wings together butterfly fashion, and only on rare occasions would a glimpse of the upper side of the wings be visible, usually as it is fluttering around. This picture is one of those instances which has frozen the view to see it. One of the darker species of "Thorn", particularly because of the underside, it is unmistakable. As its common name implies, this is one of the first moth species appearing in, or even before, the early Spring. It has at least two generations each year. The UK flight season is quoted as mid February to May, and again in July to September, but in Cornwall individuals are possible from January to November, with slightly reduced numbers in June.

Geometridae, Ennominae Final Length 32mm. A common "Thorn" moth, with a larva which can mimic a bare twig shoot.

One of the handful of first Noctuid species to appear in the UK Spring, it is quite prominent being geneally very pale. Some specimens can have a nice pink flush through the wings.