Goat Moth

Goat Moth (Xgleutes cossus, Linn.), a large moth having an expanse of wing of about four inches; it has a characteristic odour from which its name is derived. The caterpillar, however, is much better known than the moth; it has a large and reddish or flesh-coloured body and black head. It is well known owing to the damage it does to trees and gate-posts or other wooden erections. It burrows through these, and as several usually occur together, and they live for three or four years before entering the chrysalid stage, they often cause the complete destruction of the timber to which they have gained access.