Moths of the Night

Step into the world of moths after dark with local moth expert Lior Carlson for an unforgettable evening exploring some of North Carolina's most overlooked pollinators.

While butterflies often steal the spotlight, moths make up the vast majority of our winged pollinators. With more than 3,000 species found in North Carolina, these remarkable insects play an essential role in our ecosystems by pollinating native plants and providing food for birds, bats, amphibians, and other wildlife.

The evening begins with an engaging indoor presentation where you'll learn about the incredible diversity of our native moths, how to identify common species, and simple ways to create moth-friendly habitat at home. Then, we'll head outdoors to observe these nocturnal insects up close as they gather at specially illuminated collection sheets throughout the gardens.

Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or simply curious about the creatures that come alive after sunset, this program offers a unique opportunity to experience the hidden beauty of the nighttime world.

Our presenter, Lior Carlson, serves the Piedmont community through his nonprofit organization, Backyard Butterflies. Founded in 2018 alongside colleague John F. Jarvis, Backyard Butterflies is dedicated to education, community outreach, and creating habitats that support native butterflies and moths.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, September 6
• Location: Garden Pavilion
• Time - 
  • Doors Open: 6:30 PM
  • Presentation Begins: 7:00 PM
  • Moth Viewing Begins: ~8:00/8:30 PM
  • Program Ends: 10:00 PM
• Tickets -
  
  • Members: $25
  • Non-Members: $35

Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Important Notes

Please wear closed-toe shoes, as the moth viewing portion of the evening will take place outdoors in lowly lit areas of the Gardens. Participants will need to walk from the Garden Pavilion to the Prairie Castle for this program, transportation cannot be provided to the viewing area.