Common Problems

Spruce Aphid

Tiger Moth Caterpillar		Tiger Moth

Description

Mature caterpillars are about 4 cm long, reddish brown to black in color and have tufts of black and yellow hairs on their back.  Adult moths have dark forewings with large, white splotches and white hindwings. 

Symptoms

Larvae feeds on foliage and make large silken webs (tents) in the upper branches of host pines.  During September and October caterpillars hatch from eggs, begin feeding on pine needles and producing webbing.  Larvae overwinter in the webs in groups.  In April and May, larvae resume feeding and expand their webs.  At this point the insects and the webs become very noticeable.  In June pupation occurs.

Top-kill of damage trees commonly results from these injuries.

Treatment

Good control depends timely spraying.  Winter dormant oil spray followed by seasonal applications can prevent appreciable numbers in any later generations.