Which broadleaf hardwood trees are listed as favorite hosts for the Winter Moth caterpillars?
Answer
Oak (*Quercus* species), maple (*Acer* species), apple, and blueberry.
The primary ecological concern regarding the Winter Moth is focused entirely on the feeding habits of its larvae, which demonstrate distinct host preferences among deciduous trees. The caterpillars show a strong proclivity for foliage from several specific broadleaf hardwoods and fruit-bearing plants. The favorites explicitly listed include oak trees, identified by their scientific genus *Quercus*, maple trees, identified by *Acer* genus, as well as commercially relevant hosts like apple trees and blueberry bushes. Consumption by high populations can lead to complete defoliation of these preferred hosts.
Related Questions
What is the typical appearance of the female Winter Moth compared to the male?When do the destructive Winter Moth larvae feed most actively on deciduous trees?What stage of the Winter Moth life cycle overwinters in dormancy?What is the wingspan range typically observed for the male Winter Moth?In North America, when and where was *Operophtera brumata* first detected as an invasive species?Which broadleaf hardwood trees are listed as favorite hosts for the Winter Moth caterpillars?Which parasitic wasp, *Cyzenus argus*, is introduced for biological control of the Winter Moth?During what months does the adult emergence period for *Operophtera brumata* generally occur?What prevents the female Winter Moth from actively seeking mates during the flight window?Where do the Winter Moth larvae go after completing their feeding frenzy by mid-summer?