Winter moth caterpillars in Massachusetts will be emerging soon, and they're going to be hungry.

These caterpillars can do serious damage to Massachusetts trees, including oak, maple, and many others. If your trees are looking sad, winter moth caterpillars could be to blame.

Winter moths are non-native to Massachusetts and were first seen here in 2003. Originally introduced to North America from Europe in the 1930’s, winter moths migrated from eastern Canada to the west, and eventually to Washington state and Oregon. Until they were identified here in Massachusetts, they were not found in any other state.

Female adult winter moths are virtually wingless and cannot fly. The males have full wings and are usually the moths you see gathering around outdoor lights. Males will also crowd in groups around a female that is releasing mating pheromones.

The female adult winter moth will lay between 150 and 350 eggs on or under tree bark and lichen. The adult moths die off, and the eggs will overwinter until temperatures are right for hatching. Newly hatched caterpillars climb up the tree and feed on buds, damaging leaves even before they fully open. Caterpillar damage can put stress on trees and leave them vulnerable to further damage, and in cases of heavy infestation, can kill branches or entire trees. This isn't just a problem of aesthetics; weak, damaged, or dead trees can cause property damage.

Stop caterpillars from snacking on your trees and call Burgess Pest for a free estimate for tree-tment (sorry). There is a very narrow window of time in which these treatments can be effectively performed, so it is important to contact us as soon as possible. Your trees will thank you.