ATHOL — July is National Moth Month and the Athol Public Library is celebrating by hosting a Moth Ball. Join them after dark for an evening of looking at moths outdoors: Tuesday, July 19, at 8:30 p.m. at the Athol Public Library, 568 Main St.
Moths are among the most diverse and successful organisms on earth. Scientists estimate there may be 500,000 moth species. Their colors and patterns are either dazzling or so cryptic that they define camouflage. Shapes and sizes span the gamut from as small as a pinhead to as large as an adult’s hand. Most moths are nocturnal, and need to be sought at night to be seen; others fly like butterflies during the day.
A Moth Ball is an outdoor night time gathering for observing and learning about moths. Finding moths can be as simple as leaving a porch light on and checking it after dark.
Meet in the library Program Room at 8:30 p.m. for a short slide presentation introducing us to some of the moths we might see. Then, we’ll spend time outdoors on library grounds and see what kinds of moths come to visit. Dave Small, President and Acting Director of the Athol Bird and Nature Club, will help us identify what we see.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services – Dig-In Grant.
Registration is encouraged for this event. Please register at https://athol.librarycalendar.com/ or by calling 978-249-9515.
Free and open to the public. Rain date: July 26