Hi all!
I have been observing moths with a few different DIY setups for the past few years. Primarily, I have been using a self-blasted MV bulb (which has been the best of the bunch!) in a diy Robinson style trap (funnel, bucket, etc.)
I have seen experienced moth-ers use transparent screw-on bulb covers to protect MV bulbs from rain. I am interested to hear if anyone has any experience with this, what the benefits are, where to find them, or how to safely make a DIY version.
I would like to find or create a bulb cover to both protect moths from direct contact with a very hot MV bulb, and protect the bulb from any unexpected rain. Bioquip used to have full ballasted setups which included a cover, but unfortunately… bioquip is no more. A barrier between the moths and the hot bulb for some form of scorch protection is what is most important to me! Ideal bulb cover would be shatter-proof, melt-proof, transparent, and have relatively low heat conductivity. Please let me know your experience.
While I have used LED blacklight setups for more remote moth watching, my bread and butter is the MV bulb and I am specifically looking for advice, setups, or external resources from those with MV bulb experience!
Thank you!