Pine Butterfly
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Contents |
Hosts
Ponderosa pine, white pine, lodgepole pine.
Distribution
May be found throughout host range.
Damage
Larvae feed in clusters on individual needles early in the season. Later, they feed singly, consuming entire needle. Older needles are eaten first but new needles may also be fed upon when populations are high.
Identification
This insect can be identified easily during any season. Look for single rows of emerald green eggs from September to June on needles colonies of immature pale green larvae with black heads, or individuals full-grown larvae about one inch long with two white lateral stripes and green heads from June to August (fig. 137). Pupae are also green with white stripes and are attached to needles,
branches, or stems. They are usually found during August. Adults are white butterflies with black wing markings and are seen flying around tree canopies from August through September (fig. 138).
Similar damages
Other pine defoliators, especially pine sawfly, produce similar damage, but the pine butterfly's distinct characteristics of the larvae and adults help distinguish it.
Gallery
 Photo by Jerald E. Dewey, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org |
References.
Anonymous. 1982. For. Insect & disease identification and management. USDA For. Serv., Northern Region; Idaho Dept. of Lands, Insect and Disease Control; Montana Dept. of State Lands, Division of Forestry. 192 p.
Cole, W. E. 1971. Pine butterfly. USDA For. Serv., For. Pest Leaflet 66,4 p., illus.
Furniss, R. L., and V. M. Carolin. 1977. Western For. Insects. USDA Forest Serv., Misc. pub. 1339, 654 p., illus.
Field Guide to Diseases and Insect Pests of Idaho and Montana Forests, USDA Forest Service Northern Region, Publication Number R1-89-54
