Identification

Adult females have small wing pads but cannot fly. Caterpillars are tan with many wavy, black lines. Each segment has several small, hairy tubercles.

Hosts

This species is commonly found on oaks, maples, hickories, ash, and cherry.

Biology

Adults lay eggs in very early spring, eggs hatch at time of bud break and caterpillars feed on expanding foliage. Caterpillars feed for about six weeks then mature larvae drop to the soil and pupate.

Control

Outbreaks are usually limited by natural controls (predators and parasites). High-value trees can be treated with insecticides if necessary.​