Winter Moth (Operophtera brumata)

Defoliating moth of fruit trees and ornamentals whose larvae feed in spring.

Winter moth (Operophtera brumata) is a common defoliator of fruit trees and broadleaved ornamentals. Larvae feed on buds and young leaves in spring, causing severe defoliation and reduced fruit set. Biological control includes Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) sprays for young larvae and entomopathogenic nematodes for pupae in soil, together with tree banding and encouragement of natural enemies such as birds and parasitoids.