PestHigh Severity

Pine Tent Caterpillars

Thaumetopoea pityocampa

A destructive moth pest of the family Thaumetopoeidae that attacks pines and cedars in Central Asia, North Africa, and southern Europe. The caterpillar larvae have urticating hairs that cause harmful reactions in humans and other mammals.

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Pine tent caterpillars in characteristic tent-like nest in pine tree

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Large silken tent-like nests in pine trees
Defoliation from larvae feeding on needles
Caterpillars moving in nose-to-tail processions
Extensive needle damage on pines and cedars

Potential Damage

Major forest pest causing defoliation
Severe damage to pine and cedar trees
Human health hazard from urticating hairs
Can affect entire forest stands

Lifecycle

Adults lay cylindrical egg masses 4-5 cm long near tree tops. Larvae build silken nests over winter, then march in processions to pupate underground. Adults emerge at end of summer and live only one day.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Remove and destroy tent nests during winter

2

Insecticide applications during larval feeding period

3

Biological control with natural predators

4

Pheromone traps for adult moths

5

Protective equipment when handling due to urticating hairs

Recommended Mauget Products

Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against pine tent caterpillars.

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Dinocide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against pine tent caterpillars.

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