George Hudson (entomologist)

George Vernon Hudson (3 June 1867 – 29 November 1946) was a British-born New Zealand entomologist and astronomer. He is best known for his work on the Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) of New Zealand and for proposing daylight saving time.

Born in London, England, Hudson emigrated to New Zealand in 1889, taking up a position at the Post Office in Wellington. His interest in insects began early in life and continued throughout his career. He spent a considerable amount of time collecting and studying New Zealand insects, particularly moths and butterflies. His observations and meticulous notes contributed significantly to the understanding of New Zealand entomology.

Hudson authored several important publications, including "An Elementary Manual of New Zealand Entomology" (1892) and "New Zealand Moths and Butterflies (Macrolepidoptera)" (1898). These works became standard references for entomologists and naturalists in New Zealand and are still consulted today. A two-volume supplement to "New Zealand Moths and Butterflies" was published in 1928.

Beyond entomology, Hudson also had a keen interest in astronomy. He built his own telescope and made regular observations of the night sky.

Hudson is also credited with first proposing the idea of daylight saving time in 1895, presenting a paper to the Wellington Philosophical Society suggesting a two-hour shift forward in October and a two-hour shift back in March. Though initially met with skepticism, his proposal was an early contribution to the now widely adopted practice.

Hudson was a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society of London and a member of numerous scientific societies in New Zealand. He left a lasting legacy through his scientific contributions and his influence on the study of New Zealand's insect fauna. He is buried in Karori Cemetery, Wellington.