Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and UK Moth Welfare 2026

Moths are declining significantly in the UK, with welfare and ecosystem implications for the billions of individual moths and the species that depend on them.

Key Facts

UK moth populations have declined by 28% since 1968, with large moths declining most severely
Moths are critical food sources for bats, birds, and other invertebrates
Light pollution disrupts moth navigation, foraging, and mating behaviour
Native plant gardening supports moth larval stages essential for reproduction
Night gardens with moth-attracting plants like evening primrose and honeysuckle support adult moths

Welfare Considerations

Moth decline represents welfare suffering for billions of individual insects facing habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and light pollution. Garden changes directly support moth welfare.

What You Can Do

Plant native and moth-attracting plants including evening primrose and buddleia
Reduce or redirect light pollution to prevent moth disorientation
Participate in moth trapping and monitoring surveys to track population trends