Bogong moth numbers surge across Australia after decades of decline
Millions of bogong moths are migrating to Australian caves this year following a dramatic population recovery.
Moth migration attracts public attention
Thousands of bogong moths flew toward the Australian Alps during the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Weather radars detected these swarms as they approached the region. The bright lights of Stadium Australia lured the insects into the city that night.
Population recovery offers new data
Scientists now observe a resurgence in the bogong moth population along the east coast. People are finding these insects in various locations around their homes this year. The current increase provides valuable information regarding the health and abundance of the species.
Moths navigate to cool caves
These small brown insects travel up to 1,000 kilometers across Australia each year. They use stars to navigate toward the Snowy Mountains in southern New South Wales. The moths shelter in these caves during the sweltering summer months before returning inland.
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