Reed Leopard

One of only three species of this family that are found in the British Isles. The adults are incapable of feeding. They overwinter twice as part-grown larvae in reed stems below the water surface, then in the third year, the caterpillars can be found from July to the following May moving between reed stems.

Size and Family

• Family – Leopard and Goat moths (Cossidae)
• Medium Sized
• Wingspan Range – 30-46mm

Conservation status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Red Data Book species
• Extremely local (only found in some areas)

Caterpillar Food Plants

The roots and lower stems of Common Reed (Phragmites australis).

Habitat

Fens, marshes and pond margins.

Distribution

• Countries – England
• Resident only at Chippenham Fen and Wicken Fen in Cambridgeshire, the Norfolk Broads and a location near Wareham in Dorset.