Francesca Carpenterworm Moth
Common NameFrancesca Carpenterworm Moth
Scientific NameAcossus francesca
FamilyCossidae
SubfamilyCossinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (e.g., Colorado, Utah, Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia)
Host Plantspoplar, aspen, willow
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are wood-borers, spending several years (2-4) tunneling within the trunks and branches of host trees before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, robust body, and the distinctive cryptic grey and black mottled pattern on the forewings, typical of carpenterworm moths. It often rests with a somewhat 'stumpy' appearance.
Description
A robust, medium-to-large moth with a thick, hairy body and forewings mottled in shades of grey, black, and white, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
