What’s up with all of the moths? They are heading to the high country!
You’ve probably noticed lots of silvery grey moths flying around the last few weeks. Often mistakenly called ‘Miller moths’, the ones we see in Colorado are the adult stage of the army cutworm,
Euxoa auxiliaris. The army cutworm moths are stopping by Fort Collins on their annual spring migration to the mountains. They originated in eastern Colorado or came from the edges of the bordering states. The moths are making their way west to feed on the nectar of a variety of gorgeous summer mountain flowers! In the fall, the army cutworm moths will make their return trip back to the plains to breed and start the cycle over again.
Army cutworm moths provide an important food source for local native insectivores (e.g. swallows, bats) and they even help bears fatten up for the winter.
How can you help? Turn off your outdoor lights at night so that the moths can continue their journey.
Nature in the City expands the Natural Areas Department mission of connecting people to nature and improving habitat to urban and private lands.
