Moths of Portugal The Portuguese fauna of Lepidoptera comprises a total of around 2,600 species, most of which are moths. Despite attracting an increasing number of enthusiasts, this group of insects remains poorly studied, especially those that fly at night. That is why, every year, new species are discovered or their distribution and biological details are updated. Moths are pollinating insects in their adult stage and feed on a wide variety of plants in their larval phase. They are bioindicators and are the basis of the food chain for many species. Moth survey to monitor biodiversity The Greater Côa Valley offers a great opportunity to follow the evolution of species abundance and diversity, side by side with the rewilding of the landscape. And through these moth trapping activities, we are able to collect information about the occurrence of species and their abundance. In the medium to long term, this allows us to understand the evolution of moth populations in a changing landscape under rewilding management. In this sense, by participating in this activity, you are contributing to the monitoring of species and the ecosystem. Night of Moths is a nocturnal activity and is led by Fernando Romão, an amateur naturalist who has participated in and organised moth trapping sessions since the 1990s. He has even discovered new species for Portugal. This activity simply involves attracting moths with the light of a lamp, making it easier to observe and record them. No moths are captured during these sessions.

Programme

Location: any of the rewilding areas of the Greater Côa Valley Duration: 1 to 4 hours (starting after sunset) Type: The activity takes place at a fixed location where we will remain throughout.

What's Included?

Specialized guide, fee for nature conservation, insurance.

How your experience helps rewilding efforts

Our activities seek to publicise the natural heritage of the rewilding areas and the actions that have been carried out in favour of restoring the landscape and the ecosystems of the Greater Côa Valley. A percentage of our profits is donated to support rewilding initiatives in the Greater Côa Valley, through our partner Rewilding Portugal.

Group size

Up to 8 participants

Frequently Asked Questions

As the activity takes place at night and, depending on the time of year, it is quite natural for temperatures to be cooler, so it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, suitable for the expected weather conditions. Warm clothes, a beanie or hat, gloves, for the colder nights. Water or snacks, eventually. As the activity involves standing for long periods of time, we suggest you bring a chair or camping stool. Even during the summer, the weather can deteriorate very sunddenly and become somewhat harsh: strong winds, low temperatures, fogs. Depending on the weather conditions for the day of the activity, there may be, or not, a change or cancellation of the program.