Bogong moths: a remarkable story worth following

A recent article from ABC News is shining a spotlight on one of Australia’s most fascinating natural phenomena — the migration of Bogong moths — and a new effort to better understand where they go and how they get there.

For those of us in north-east Victoria, Bogong moths are a familiar (and sometimes fleeting) part of the seasonal rhythm. Each year, these small but mighty insects make an incredible journey from breeding grounds across inland Australia to the cooler alpine regions, including areas not far from Mansfield.

They are also deeply significant to First Nations peoples, with strong cultural connections to the alpine country through gathering, food, and ceremony.

A community-powered research effort

What makes this story particularly interesting is the scale of the project. Researchers are aiming to tag 10,000 Bogong moths, with the help of volunteers and citizen scientists, to track their movements across the landscape.

By using tiny tags and visible markings, anyone who spots a tagged moth can contribute to the research. It’s a great example of how everyday observations can play a role in building a bigger picture — something many in our Landcare community will be familiar with.

Why it matters for our region

Bogong moth numbers have declined significantly in recent years, and there’s still a lot we don’t know about their lifecycle — including exactly where they breed and the routes they take to reach the Alps.

For communities like ours, on the doorstep of the Victorian High Country, this matters. Bogong moths are part of the broader alpine ecosystem, providing a food source for wildlife and contributing to the health of these environments.

Their decline is a reminder of how environmental change — including climate pressures — is affecting even the most resilient and wide-ranging species.

Taking a closer look

This project is a timely reminder to keep an eye out and stay curious about the natural world around us. Whether it’s noticing insects, birds, or seasonal changes, these small observations all add up.

If you’re interested in learning more, you can read the full article here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-05/scientists-tagging-bogong-moths-to-solve-mystery/106416680