niamh o'connell design

The relationship between biodiversity and pests can be complex. The moth and the urban fox are considered pests by some, however, these visually captivating, and often elegant creatures are important contributors to biodiversity. 
 
Moths are often dreaded by people due to their tendency to damage clothing and other fabrics, but just 2 of the 1,500 species found in Ireland are responsible for this destruction. These delicate indicator species sensitive to our environment are effective nocturnal pollinators that play a vital role in our ecosystem.  
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Foxes, primarily nocturnal too, are regular visitors or residents of our gardens causing damage to lawns, flower beds and compost heaps, while often leaving behind unwanted gifts. Their agility and adaptability have to be admired though, and their contribution to controlling the rodent population appreciated. 
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The species Fox Moth, as with most moths, got its common name due to its appearance.  The male is a reddish brown and the female is grey/brown. The fox moth caterpillars  change color as they grow, initially black with orange bands, then developing  a reddish-brown and grey-haired appearance. Both sexes have two pale bands on their forewings.
Their natural habitats include damp meadows, sand dunes and open woodland. You can see them at this time of year in Ireland especially now with these warmer evenings.

Fox Moth, is a sustainable, fully biodegradable, hand woven textile design piece. Carefully considered yarns, densely woven, were selected for their tactility and compatibility, Aran Tweed from Donegal Yarns, native Galway Wool and hand spun Irish wool are combined to depict the intricate, symmetrical and delicate decoration of the moth with its dots, spots, freckles and stripes. Recycled silk strips add a subtle sheen in recognition of the silk moth. The thick fabric represents the incredible sound-absorbing surface of Moth wings. This is an acoustic camouflage they have against bat echolocation.

These two pieces, hanging side by side reflecting each other, with edges folded back, are like resting moths.