Butterflies & Moths

Pollinator

Butterflies and moths bring colour and movement to gardens, and many adults pollinate flowers while feeding on nectar. Their caterpillars are also an essential part of the food web, feeding birds and other wildlife. A garden with nectar, larval food plants and shelter supports these delicate but valuable visitors throughout their life cycle.

How to identify it

Butterflies usually fly by day with clubbed antennae, while moths are more varied and often active at dusk or night. Adults range from about 15-70 mm across the wings, depending on species. Eggs are laid on suitable plants; caterpillars feed and grow, then form a chrysalis or cocoon before emerging winged. Look for tiny eggs, chewed leaves, caterpillars and pupae as well as adults, rather than judging wildlife value by flowers alone.

How it helps your garden

Adult butterflies and moths transfer pollen as they visit nectar-rich blooms, particularly open tubular flowers. Caterpillars provide food for songbirds, beetles and parasitic wasps, supporting wider garden wildlife. Some leaf nibbling is a worthwhile trade for breeding habitat: nettles, grasses and native shrubs can sustain species that would otherwise find nowhere to reproduce.

How to attract it

Plant nectar-rich, single flowers across the season, including primrose, knapweed, buddleia, verbena, marjoram, sedum and ivy, with RHS Plants for Pollinators as a useful guide. Keep sunny, sheltered patches and leave grasses, nettles and native hedges in a wilder area for caterpillars. Avoid pesticides, bright overnight lighting and excessive autumn clearing; leaf litter and stems can shelter pupae.

Tips

Do not remove every caterpillar automatically. Identify the plant and share it where possible, especially nettles in an out-of-the-way corner. Mow or cut wild areas in sections, leaving refuge each time, and enjoy moths by watching quietly near scented evening flowers.