Conservationists restoring habitat at a historic estate in Northumberland have rediscovered a hidden population of one of England's rarest insects, finding the species just 10 minutes into a survey at a site where it had not been recorded for more than 70 years. Dr Dave Wainwright, a senior conservation scientist with Butterfly Conservation, found a breeding colony of the dark bordered beauty moth (Epione vespertaria) at the National Trust's Wallington Estate near Morpeth. The day-flying moth is known for its distinctive custard and chocolate-coloured wings. It was last recorded at Wallington in 1952 before disappearing from local records. As reported by ITV News in August 2026, the discovery could provide a vital boost for a species that was at serious risk of disappearing from England.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!