Although the Lobster moth, Stauropus fagi, is not overly attractive, the benefit of its mottled brown wings is that the moth is camouflaged when resting on tree trunks during the day. This moth is commonly found in woodland where it lays its eggs on the leaves of oak, beech and birch trees – these being the primary food source for its larvae (caterpillars).
The common name ‘Lobster’ refers to the appearance of its larvae during the latter stages of development. The newly emerged larva initially feeds on its own eggshell which it vigorously protects by attacking any approaching insect. Unlike most moth larvae, those of Stauropus have very long legs and these, together with large head and swollen end segment, give a resemblance to ants. When feeling threatened, this impression is enhanced by the larva making violent, jerky movements looking, it has been suggested, like an injured ant!
During later stages of development, large flaps develop along its back and the end segments become even more swollen and arched over its back. It is this crustacean-like appearance that gives Stauropus the common name of Lobster moth. The advantage, however, of this rather weird shape is that when at rest it is camouflaged by looking like a dead leaf which then bursts into life when threatened by a predator.
The final larval stage pupates in a silken cocoon spun between dead leaves. The moth overwinters in this state, and adults emerge in the following spring and early summer.
