Here Comes the Night Shift

The best-known pollinators are bees and butterflies; other insects do not get credit for their role in pollination. Moths are overlooked because they are mostly nocturnal and less visible. But their important contribution to pollination cannot be ignored: moths are excellent pollinators, thanks to their hairy underbellies. Moths outnumber butterflies by a ratio of 10 to 1. Moths carry pollen over long distances, increasing plant genetic diversity, while butterflies feed locally. As dusk settles, day pollinators rest and nighttime pollinators emerge. This female Feathered Thorn moth wakes from sleep, ready to work. Her look says, “Move over, butterflies and bees! Here comes the night shift!"