Winter moth
(Operophtera brumata)

Overview

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The species Operophtera brumata is commonly known as the winter moth and is a pest to numerous species of deciduous plants. The larvae bores into fruits and buds of the host plant causing significant damage, particularly when cool conditions exist as the larvae will extend its feeding time. Infestation by winter moth larvae can lead to significant losses through defoliation. In cases of subsequent infestation of 4 years, plant mortality has been exhibited. 

Main description

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Winter Moth eggs are pale green or yellowish at first but after two weeks they become reddish orange. They are laid under lichens, bark scales and bark crevices. The eggs hatch in the spring into yellowish green larvae which become about 25 mm long. Most feeding is done during the second and third weeks of June. The larvae of the Winter moth are hairless, green caterpillars. They can be commonly found hanging from a single strand of webbing.