Yellow Necked Caterpillar

My final pest of the week is the yellow necked caterpillar. Birch, pin oak, crabapple and service berry are typically affected by this insect pest in our area.

Yellow necked caterpillar eggs hatched a few weeks ago. Small larvae (pictured above) often feed unnoticed until they gain size; then damage can be extensive. Larva feed as a group for about six weeks before they drop to the ground for winter. By the time these caterpillars are typically noticed, the feeding stage is mostly completed. Larger caterpillars are pictured below.

Defoliation late in the season does little to harm the tree; however, the insect can be spot sprayed with plant protection products if found in the early stages. Contact a tree company, like Ryan Lawn & Tree, for assistance.