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Autumn webworm

Autumn webworm

Hyphantria cunea

A species of Hyphantria, Also known as Fall webworm

The autumn webworm is considered a pest of many types of trees and crops. It got its name from the distinctive webbed tents they create on hardwood trees during the caterpillar stage. They can eat all the leaves of an entire tree during this process.

Does the Autumn webworm cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Autumn webworm
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Attributes of Autumn webworm
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
forest; river bank
Larva Food Source
Leaves of hardwood trees, shrubs, weeds, alfalfa, clover
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The Autumn webworm has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Autumn webworm feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Appearance of Autumn webworm
The adult autumn webworm has a wingspan of approximately 3 cm and is generally white-colored, although some individuals may have dark-colored marks. The caterpillars are highly variable in coloration, ranging from a pale yellow to dark grey, with yellow spots and long and short bristles. The maximum length of larvae is 3.5 cm. Webs are progressively enlarged and much messier looking than those of tent caterpillars (which occur only in spring and have shorter hairs and very little yellow on their bodies). The pupa is dark brown and about 1 cm long.
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How to Identify Autumn webworm?

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Life Cycle of Autumn webworm
Egg At this initial phase, the egg of autumn webworm is small, typically laid in clusters, and its color can vary. The function is to protect and nurture the developing embryo inside.
Larva The larvae of autumn webworm, commonly known as caterpillars, exhibit rapid growth. They display distinctive color patterns for camouflage or warning and have chewing mouthparts specialized for a herbivorous diet.
Pupal In this transitional stage, autumn webworm forms a pupa where its body is undergoing drastic transformation. The creature is immobile, and the pupal case may blend with the surroundings for protection.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult autumn webworm’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Autumn webworm
2.5 - 4 cm
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Predators of Autumn webworm Larvae
Birds, rodents, wasps, spiders
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Predators of Adult Autumn webworm
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Autumn webworm
The larvae of autumn webworm exhibit a fascinating behavior known as 'social facilitation,' where they feed in large groups to improve their survival rate.
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Scientific Classification of Autumn webworm
Tips for Finding Autumn webworm
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How Can You Attract Autumn webworm
The larvae of autumn webworm may be attracted to baits that include the leaves or foliage from host plants, while adults can sometimes be attracted using light traps.
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Habitat Preferences of Autumn webworm Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of autumn webworm are primarily located on the underside of leaves of diverse deciduous trees. As caterpillars, they form communal webs in the host trees where they feed. These webs are often in the crooks of branches or at branch tips. During the pupal stage, autumn webworm creates cocoons hidden in sheltered areas, such as in leaf litter on the ground or in bark crevices. To find autumn webworm at various stages, search for silky webs on trees for caterpillars, inspect the ground and crevices for pupae, and check the foliage for eggs. Adult autumn webworm are typically found near the host trees where they display nocturnal activity and are attracted to light.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Autumn webworm
The best time to find autumn webworm varies with their life stage. Larvae (caterpillars) can typically be found during the day, whereas adults (moths) are usually nocturnal and more active at dusk or during the night.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Autumn webworm
Searching for autumn webworm is best done in mild to warm weather when they are most active. It is less likely to find them during extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold) or during heavy rain.
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How and Where Can You Find Autumn webworm at Different Life Stages
Egg Autumn webworm eggs are often laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. Look for them by carefully inspecting both surfaces of leaves on known host plants.
Larva Autumn webworm larvae are caterpillars that feed on a variety of plants, including trees and shrubs. Search for them by checking the leaves, stems, and branches of potential host plants for signs of feeding or the presence of caterpillars.
Pupal Autumn webworm pupae may be found in protected areas such as under the bark of trees, in leaf litter, or in soil near the host plants. They can be located by gently searching these potential hiding places.
Adult Autumn webworm adults are moths that are attracted to light, so use light traps at night to lure them. They can also be found resting on surfaces near host plants during the day, though they are less active and harder to spot.
Are Autumn webworm harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Autumn webworm
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Allergenic
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Does the Autumn webworm cause allergies?

Autumn webworm is most likely to cause allergies during its larval stage due to the hairs that can provoke allergic reactions on contact. This risk is limited to a small group of people and typically presents as mild symptoms. Different individuals might experience varying degrees of allergic reactions. Caution is advised when handling or near the larvae of autumn webworm to minimize the risk of developing allergies.

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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of autumn webworm are voracious feeders causing defoliation across various plants, resulting in reduced photosynthesis. Infestations lead to weakened crops, stunted growth, and if severe, plant death, indirectly affecting food supply and economic stability.

More Effects of Autumn webworm

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