Monsoon Moon

[58chevy]

Is the phase of the moon a significant factor when planning a trip to Arizona during the monsoon season, or is it a minor consideration in comparison to the timing of the rains? Any opinions?

[nightwings]

I have often compared "mothing" to fishing, part luck, being in the right place at the right time, etc. But, there are some factors definitely worth considering to catch the "right place and right time".
Here, the monsoons are critical to many species of insects. The monsoon has really kicked in in SE AZ over the last four days with rains every day and yesterday there were four major storms between Nogales and Green Valley. They are scattered and small in size but very strong for brief periods. What I don't know is how soon after the first storms the insects will emerge. Much of the vegetation is responding to the rain but I expect to try lighting next week. I have not heard any local reports yet. I definitely am tracking where the rains have fallen from personal observation and radar scans and will coordinate accordingly.
Tonight is the new moon and I will make a big effort to get out during the darker phases of the moon. I have no data to prove it but experience and intuition tells me that there very well could be an effect. Of course if it is cloudy, it will not matter, or if you collect in a deep canyon the effect of moonlight should be lessened greatly. This year the full moon is right in the middle of the collecting season, 27, July.
In general, the consensus has usually focussed around 21 July to 8 August, but every year is different and conditions are local. The last two years have been effected negatively by drought and higher temperatures. SO we are hoping the rains continue. Hope this helps a little, follow the rain and catch crescent moons or clouds. Hah!