More Beautiful than Butterflies

How often do we pass by moths under a porch light or fluttering under a streetlamp without giving them a second glance? Yet moths, far more plentiful than butterflies, with their intricate patterns and curious coloration often emerge as beautiful as butterflies. Join us for this program to learn about the original field work of distinguished Texas naturalist, author, and photographer John Tveten. Tveten’s work stands as testament to what a person can discover by careful and systemic observations of the natural world. Beginning in 1978 until his death in 2009, Tveten kept meticulous field notes about nearly every bird, butterfly, mammal, reptile, dragonfly, and moth he encountered, using a form designed by his wife, Gloria, who shared his enthusiasm for documenting wildlife.

During this program by Kathy Adams Clark, learn how she and her husband Gary Clark, close friends and proteges of John and Gloria Tveten, set out to transcribe and publish Tveten’s field notes alongside the corresponding photographs. Their latest book Book of Texas Moths (Texas A&M University Press, 2025), remains faithful to John’s original research, showing Tveten’s careful documentation on the distribution, history, and identification of 100 Texas moth species.

Kathy has been a professional nature photographer since 1995.
Kathy’s photos have been published in hundreds of places including Family Fun,, Nature's Best, New York Times, Birder's World, and Ranger Rick. AAA Journey, Texas Parks & Wildlife and Texas Highways magazines have used Kathy’s photos on their cover. Her photos have also appeared in a numerous books and calendars including the Barnes & Noble Ireland Countryside Calendar, the cover of the Arbor Foundation Rainforest Calendar, and the Sierra Engagement Calendar.

Come join us to have an opportunity to talk with our speaker, have the opportunity to ask questions and to meet others who share your interest in nature photography.