Cocoon
Cocoon, a case produced in the larval stage of certain animals (e.g., butterflies, moths, leeches, earthworms, Turbellaria) for the resting pupal stage (see pupa) in the life cycle. Certain spiders spin a fibrous mass, or cocoon, to cover their eggs.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.
Citation Information
Article Title:
Cocoon
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
12 November 2026
Access Date:
November 14, 2026