Millions of Moths Swarm Sydney and Melbourne Streets

Millions of bogong moths descended upon Sydney and Melbourne this weekend after strong winds blew them off their intended route. The image across social media was one of homes, businesses, and streets completely filled with these insects over the past days. These endangered creatures normally travel from low-lying areas in Queensland, central NSW, and western Victoria to caves within the southern alps every spring. While some estimates suggest as many as two billion moths are involved, they primarily fly at night using moonlight for navigation. This reliance on natural light makes them highly sensitive to city lights.

Hawkesbury Police issued a statement on Saturday asking residents to stay calm while dealing with the sudden influx of insects. 'Before anyone reports a moth-related crime spree, please be reassured that these little travellers are a natural part of Australia's migration cycle,' the police said in their warning. They clarified that although it may look like a coordinated takeover of the Hawkesbury region, the animals are simply passing through on their annual journey. Thousands descended on Sydney and the NSW South Coast while being pushed toward the coast by the wind.

The department confirmed the insects pose no threat to people or pets. 'They are harmless to people and pets. They are not interested in moving into your home permanently,' the police statement continued. Residents were told that the moths do not require police intervention and will move on once this stage of their migration ends. If your porch looks like a nightclub for moths, there is no need to panic. Giving them a little time allows these winged visitors to continue on their way.

Zoos Victoria tracks this bi-annual migration which holds special importance for the survival of mountain pygmy-possums. These small mammals eat the moths as they wake from winter hibernation, making the spring journey critical for ecosystem health. Wildflower Nursery ecologist Natalie Sanderson urged Australians to refrain from killing the insects during their arrival. 'Turn the lights off inside the house, open doors and windows so they can find their way out,' she told Nine News regarding how to help them escape. She added that if there is a light outside, the moths will be attracted to it instead.

'They're so important to our ecosystem and the survival of our plants and species,' Sanderson emphasized in her plea for protection. 'They really need to be looked after.' These small insects usually measure between 2.5cm and 3.5cm in length with dark stripes running down each wing. Anyone who spots a bogong moth is encouraged to upload a photo of the sighting to the Zoos Victoria Bogong Moth Tracker, which monitors their migration path closely. The spring migration is especially important for the health of critically endangered mountain pygmy-possums.