What larval size is generally targeted for traditional contact control tactics?
Answer
Around one-quarter to one-half inch in length, just after bud emergence
Successful traditional control strategies for the Winter Moth rely heavily on interrupting the brief, intense feeding period of the caterpillars. Management tactics using contact insecticides or biological controls like *Bacillus thuringiensis* (Bt) are most effective when the caterpillars are small and actively consuming foliage. Specifically, the optimal time for application is when the larvae are newly emerged from the buds and measure approximately one-quarter to one-half inch in length. Applying treatments before the caterpillars reach this size or after they have fed significantly and grown larger results in reduced efficacy.
Related Questions
Which stage of the Winter Moth inflicts the major feeding damage?What is the characteristic appearance of a Winter Moth infested canopy?During which period do male and female Winter Moths fly to mate?When must systemic treatments be absorbed for effectiveness against larvae?Why does the extensive host range of *Operophtera brumata* complicate management?What is the mobility characteristic of the adult female Winter Moth?What primary consequence forces a host plant after severe, early spring defoliation?Where do Winter Moths spend the summer months after larval development?What larval size is generally targeted for traditional contact control tactics?What management approach targets the precursor to the larval diet using physical barriers?