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.

Moths monitoring 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.

Moth trapping. Neoharpyia verbasci
Neoharpyia verbasci
Moth trapping. Hyphoraia dejeani
Hyphoraia dejeani
Moth trapping. Catocala optata
Catocala optata

Moths monitoring to study 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.

Photo gallery

[Show thumbnails]

more information

 

Duration: 1 to 4 hours (starting after sunset)

Type: The activity takes place at a fixed location where we will remain throughout. 

 

Although this activity is focused on the rewilding areas of the Greater Côa Valley, we can, upon request, hold sessions in other locations.

 

Recommendations and useful tips

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.

 

price

 

Up to 8 participants – 135,00 € (group price)

 

The price indicated corresponds to the activity taking place in the rewilding areas of the Greater Côa Valley.

For bigger groups, other places and other conditions, contact us. 

The price of the activity includes specialized guide, fee for nature conservation, insurance.

Booking a place is only guaranteed if 50% of the registration fee is paid.

A discount equal to VAT is available for private clients.
VAT will be added to the indicated prices for companies and other entities.

 

how to book

 

Through the contacts available, indicating your name and cell phone contact/email.

The reservation is only guaranteed upon payment of 50% of the registration fee.

contact form

Email: info@wildlifeportugal.pt

Mobile/WhatsApp: +351 918 068 872

(call to the national mobile network) 

 

environmental commitment

 

In the course of our activities, we are committed to safeguarding the environment, minimising environmental impacts and reducing pollution.

By carrying out this activity, we support the management and conservation actions that promote the coexistence and return of wild species to the Greater Côa Valley,

under the management of Rewilding Portugal, through a financial contribution.

Rewilding Portugal

 

 

RTT certification
Copyright © 2025 by Wildlife Portugal