COSSIDAE – GOAT MOTHS
Cossidae are a family of Lepidoptera, commonly referred to as “goat moths” or “carpocapses”. These nocturnal moths are characterized by their robust appearance, with forewings typically gray, brown, or dark, sometimes decorated with subtle patterns. They are especially known for their caterpillars, which are wood-boring larvae. These larvae tunnel into the wood of trees and shrubs, potentially causing significant damage to plants. Some goat moth species are forest and agricultural pests. Cossidae are found in various habitats worldwide, often associated with wooded areas.
Characteristics
- Large moths, stout bodies and narrow wings
- Wings are dull gray-brown, veined, bark- or lichen-like appearance
- Proboscis absent or reduced: adults do not feed
- Males with pectinate antennae, females with simple ones
- Slow, discreet flight, nocturnal or crepuscular
Habitat
Cossidae are found in:
- Forests, orchards, wooded parks, old hedgerows
- Areas rich in host trees (poplars, willows, apple trees, hazels…)
- Adults are rarely seen, but traces of larvae are visible (sawdust, holes, frass)
Biology
- Eggs laid at the base of trunks or in bark crevices
- Wood-boring larvae, digging deep galleries in the wood
- Long larval cycle: 2 to 4 years depending on the species
- Pupation occurs inside the wood or in a chamber in the soil
- Adults emerge in warm weather, usually in summer
Notable Species
- Cossus cossus – Goat Moth: large gray species, pink larva with strong odor, common in poplars, willows, apple trees
- Zeuzera pyrina – Leopard Moth: white moth with black spots, a pest in orchards (apple, pear, walnut…)
- Phragmataecia castaneae – Associated with reed beds, larvae live in reed stems
Noteworthy Traits
- Very robust larvae, sometimes urticating or foul-smelling
- Adults often silent, dull, and motionless, excellent camouflage
- Species hard to observe except during emergence or when damage is visible
- Some species are regulated or monitored in arboriculture
