A reprint under a new ISBN, A Photographic Guide to Moths & Butterflies of New Zealand is essential to those that want to know more about the species.

Given that they are found in a huge range of habitats, from the porch light to the forests, pastures and high country, it is easy to stumble across New Zealand’s moths and butterflies. That study is still a ‘work in progress’. In addition to over 1700 named species – the great majority of which are moths, many of them day-flying – we have numerous unnamed species: probably well over 200 in all.

A Photographic Guide to Moths & Butterflies of New Zealand, written and photographed by experts in their fields, introduces important and striking species, describing their appearance, behaviour and life cycle. It explains which species are endemic and which have probably ‘blown over’ at some point from Australia and other neighbours. It gives useful tips on how readers can find, identify and study these beautiful invertebrates for themselves.

About the Authors:
‘My interest in moths really goes back to my father, who used to collect butterflies as a hobby,’ says Robert Hoare. He has a biology degree and a PhD in Insect Systematics. Robert currently works in Auckland at Landcare Research and has published several scientific papers.

Originally from England, Olivier ‘Olly’ Ball took a PhD (Waikato University) in insect–fungi relationships and spent several years as a research scientist with AgResearch, and is the sole or joint author of several journal and conference papers.