Secret writings - Eucalyptus rossii

Eucalyptus rossii (sometimes called Western Scribbly Gum or White Gum) is a smooth-barked eucalypt found on the Western side of the Great Dividing Range in Eastern Australia - and through much of the Molonglo High Plains.  The markings on the tree are made by the larvae of a moth - secret writing that trace the growth of the larvae.  The trails start small and gradually deepen as the larvae grow – sometimes the paths backtrack, retracing older paths.  The path ends where the larvae pupates.  The trails are revealed when old bark falls away from the tree.

Peter Quinton

Palerang April 2014