Going Buggy

I love insects but was concerned that I wouldn't be able to find a subject that would hold still long enough for me to focus, fiddle with the lighting, etc.  And I didn't think dead bugs were a fair (or fun) subject.  Wendesday night was warm and damp and while there were a million fireflys out, there was no way I could do them justice.  But, at bedtime barn check I found not one, not two, but FOUR of these lovely Waved Sphinx moths clinging to the boards of the lamb pens under the night light.

I had to look him (or her) up as I thought I knew what it was but wasn't positive.  I love being able to find information so easily. 

The moths were so calm I lifted one's wing to see if there were bright colors on the body or underwing, but they were all soft shades of gray/brown. 

I've heard that a great way to attract moths if you want to see what species are in your area is to hang a white sheet between to trees in the woods, splash some beer on it and set a Coleman lantern near it or spotlight shing on it and moths will come from all over, settle, and you can ID them.  I have to wonder if it wouldn't be more sensible to put up the sheet and the lighting but then drink the beer while you wait for the moths.