AN ULTRA rare moth is among 138 species of insect, bird and animal native to Knowsley Safari Park

Although known for its collection of exotic animals, the first ever wildlife survey has just been carried out at the park - to research the indigenous wildlife.

Staff at Knowsley have been running a native species campaign, enlisting the help of local enthusiasts and naturalist groups to search for the species living in woodland areas and around Mizzy Lake to help the team record the findings.

Over a 16-hour period, the 'BioBlitz' team counted 138 different species, including birds, insects, plants, bats, fish and fungi.

However, the prize discovery was the Clouded Cosmet moth, which has only been recorded twice before in the region. Other rarities found included a Kingfisher, a species of Caddisfly and an Ichneumon wasp.

Heather Young, from Knowsley Safari Park, said: “We’re very proud of how successful our BioBlitz has been and hopefully it will be bigger next year, with even more species found.

“Finding a rare species such as the Clouded Cosmet moth on our first event shows the importance for this to happen regularly too.

“This nature is on our very own doorstep and needs to be protected.”

The final number recorded is expected to rise from the current 138, as species too small to be identified by the naked eye have been sent to the Museum of Liverpool for identification.