“Fabulous” rare moths, whose numbers are falling across the country due to the widespread destruction of hedgerows, have been discovered at The Donkey Sanctuary.

Small Eggar larvae are found in only a few sites in the UK, and only four sightings in Devon have been reported in the last three years to the Devon Moth Group.

Therefore donkey sanctuary managers were thrilled to find the elusive moths on a tree on a farm walkway.

James Chubb, The Donkey Sanctuary’s Activities and Events Manager, said it was proof of the “wonderful bio-diversity” at the centre, which they hoped to improve over the coming years.

“We are going to explore further ways in which we can combine donkey welfare with improving and protecting habitats for wildlife,” he said.