All data collected by the Leicestershire and Rutland Moth Group is forwarded to the Leicestershire Lepidoptera Recording Scheme. It is essential that the records are a reliable source of information. This is especially important where the information may be utilised in support of any conservation initiatives. For this reason, the species detailed in the VC55 Moth Lists on this website have been assigned a category letter to give guidance as to the amount of detail and/or verification required for any record of that species to be acceptable.

It should be noted that the micros are generally under-recorded, and as such many species fall into categories C & D although they may be common nationally.

Records are collated by the County Recorder, and if necessary are assessed by the County Lepidoptera Panel. The panel members include some of the most experienced and well-regarded lepidopterists within the County, but where appropriate the panel will consult with outside expertise for comments and assistance. General record submission notes:

Records should be submitted to the County Recorder.

Dates for light trapping/nocturnal records should refer to the evening that the trapping/collecting method was started.

Records for species encountered during daylight should be clearly annotated as such.

Six-figure OS grid references for sites should be given wherever possible.

The term 'readily identifiable' infers that the species can usually be identified by external features/markings alone. However, the ever-applicable caveat is that the specific identification of poorly marked or worn specimens (especially the pugs, Eupithecia spp.) should be considered with care.

Where the category is suffixed (G), this indicates that records should be supported by confirmation that the specimens genitalia has been examined to distinguish it from the commoner resident species. Records of such species may otherwise be accepted as aggregates only.

If retaining a specimen to obtain a subsequent identification, please ensure that all supporting detail is recorded (date, site, trapping/collecting method).

If you are unsure as to how much detail to provide - remember that more is far preferable to not enough!