The Jewel Box: How Moths Illuminate Nature's Hidden Rules

The moth trap on Tim Blackburn's London flat inspires him by showing the diversity of moths and their relationships with one another and the wider web of life. Blackburn's book "THE JEWEL BOX" reflects on his thirty years of work as a scientist studying ecosystems and demonstrates how the contents of one small box can illuminate the workings of all nature.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Every morning, ecologist Tim Blackburn is inspired by the incredible diversity that exists within the moth trap he operates on the roof of his London flat. These moths, beautiful and enigmatic creatures, offer a glimpse into a larger order that extends beyond individual species, beyond lepidoptera or insects, and into a hidden landscape.

Among the diverse inhabitants of the moth trap are footmen, whose populations are on the rise as their lichen food recovers from decades of industrial pollution. The Goat Moth, a thumb-sized broken stick mimic, takes several years to mature deep within the wood of tree trunks. The Oak Eggar, resembling a bemused Honey Monster, hosts a large wasp that feeds on its caterpillars alive from the inside. The Uncertain, whose resemblance to other species has earned it the English name, and the Silver Y, weighing only a few milligrams but capable of migrating across continents, are also present.

A moth trap is a remarkable device that conjures up these and hundreds of other insect jewels from the depths of darkness. Just as iron filings arrange themselves to form a magnetic field that would otherwise be invisible, Blackburn demonstrates that when we pay close attention to these tiny animals, their relationships with one another and their connections to the wider web of life, a greater truth about the world gradually emerges.

In his book, THE JEWEL BOX, Blackburn reflects on his thirty years of work as a scientist studying ecosystems and showcases how the contents of one small box can illuminate the workings of all nature. Through his meticulous observations and thoughtful analysis, Blackburn reveals the intricate web of life that exists beneath our feet, and how even the smallest creatures can have a profound impact on the environment and our understanding of the world.

THE JEWEL BOX is not just a book about insects; it is a testament to the power of observation, curiosity, and scientific inquiry. Blackburn's passion for his work shines through on every page, and his insights into the natural world will inspire readers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a seasoned ecologist or a casual nature enthusiast, this book will captivate your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the incredible diversity and complexity of life on our planet.

Weight: 616g
Dimension: 162 x 243 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474624527