Martin Townsend started specializing in Lepidoptera at the age of ten. He graduated with a BSc in Zoology from the University of Aberdeen in 1985, and since then has worked in ecological research and conservation. He is now an independent consultant, carrying out site surveys for conservation bodies and other landowners.

Paul Waring was born in the New Forest. A schoolboy interest in caterpillars led to Honours Zoology at the University of Oxford and a Ph.D. on the impact of woodland management in Bernwood Forest. Since 1987, he has worked full time on moth conservation in Britain, both within government conservation agencies and as a freelancer, as well as mothing throughout the world.

Richard Lewington studied graphic design at the Berkshire College of Art, and since leaving in 1971 has specialized in natural-history illustration. His meticulous paintings are the mainstay of many of the modern classics of field-guide art.