Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly vs Goat Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly Goat Moth
Scientific Name Perga polita Cossus cossus
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Pergidae Cossidae
Size 14-20 mm 68-96 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Wood Feeders
Regions Southeastern Australia Europe, Asia, Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly

A robust Australian sawfly with a dark, polished body. Its gregarious larvae cluster on eucalyptus branches and produce a strong eucalyptus odor when disturbed.

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Did You Know?

The powerful eucalyptus-oil smell released by disturbed larvae can be detected from several meters away and serves as a chemical defense.

Goat Moth

A large moth whose caterpillars bore deep into hardwood trees for up to four years.

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Did You Know?

Larvae emit a strong goat-like odor from which the moth gets its name.