Pine-tree Lappet vs Spruce Budworm

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pine-tree Lappet Spruce Budworm
Scientific Name Dendrolimus pini Choristoneura fumiferana
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Lasiocampidae Tortricidae
Size 50-80 mm wingspan 20-28 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pine-tree Lappet

A large moth that can be a devastating forest pest, with caterpillars capable of completely defoliating pine forests across Eurasia. Major outbreaks are cyclical and can last several years.

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Did You Know?

During outbreak years, caterpillars can strip entire pine forests bare, causing economic losses of millions of dollars.

Spruce Budworm

A small mottled grey-brown moth that is the most destructive forest pest in North America. Outbreaks can kill millions of hectares of spruce and fir forest.

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Did You Know?

A single outbreak in the 1970s-80s damaged more timber than all forest fires in Canada combined.