Winter Moth, an invasive pest introduced from Europe and the Near East, causes severe defoliation of hardwood trees. Winter Moth is appropriately named, as adult moths are generally active from November through January. The larvae begin feeding early on developing leaves; severe infestations will cause noticeable tree defoliation. In June, they drop to the ground to pupate in the soil until the fall. Canadian research has shown that four consecutive years of defoliation can ultimately lead to tree mortality.
Early detection of Winter Moth is difficult, as the first instar larvae begin feeding while the pre-formed leaf is still in the bud. The first symptoms will be visible only after buds break and leaves unfurl, revealing small feeding holes in the leaves; at this point, the larvae are still generally too small to be seen. Over the early weeks of the spring, the feeding damage on the leaf will become more obvious and the caterpillars may grow to a visible size. The caterpillars may also be seen descending from the canopy on silken threads. Extensive populations of Winter Moth can cause severe defoliation of the tree.
Info Source: Arborjet
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