The Night Gardeners: Why Moths Matter More Than You Think
Using music to highlight the plight of the humble moth
At LettsSafari, we talk a lot about biodiversity but sometimes, it’s the overlooked creatures that hold the most surprising power. Enter the humble moth. These often-misunderstood insects were recently given the spotlight they deserve by composer Ellie Watson in her new piece "Moth x Human", aired on BBC Radio 3. The piece will be presented for the first time at the two PRSF New Music Biennial events at the Southbank Centre, London, and in Bradford as part of its UK City of Culture celebrations.
Inspired by real-world moth activity data from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Watson transformed spreadsheet figures into soaring soundscapes. Using information from automated moth monitoring stations - which use light, camera, and AI to track species - she composed a musical response to the nocturnal rhythms of nature. The piece is written for tow violins, cello, trombone, piano, synths, electronics … and moths. The result is both beautiful and alarming: a tribute to creatures in peril.
So why all this buzz about moths?
Moths are vital nighttime pollinators, just as crucial as bees and butterflies. They feed bats, owls, and birds, and they help sustain entire ecosystems. And yet, like so many insects, they’re in steep decline - victims of habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Out of the 2,500 moth species in the UK, many are under threat, even though only a few nibble on your jumpers.
Ellie Watson’s composition reminds us that moths - though hidden from view - are not absent from impact. Their story is our story too.
At LettsSafari, we’re working to reverse this decline. Our rewilding parks, gardens, and wild spaces are carefully planted to support nocturnal pollinators, creating safe havens for moths through native wildflower meadows and pesticide-free zones. We believe the night deserves just as much protection as the day - and that includes the creatures who keep it alive.
Because when we restore nature, even the smallest wings make the biggest difference.
Whether you're managing land, living in a city flat, or simply care about the planet, you can be part of the rewilding revolution. Subscribe to LettsSafari and join a growing movement of everyday rewilders.