Live Oak Tussock Moth
The Live Oak Tussock Moth (Orgyia detrita) is a moth species with life cycle coinciding with Coastal Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) leaf emergence in the spring. The moth favors Coastal Live Oak trees as a host plant, and emerging caterpillars may completely defoliate the tree. Note that healthy trees can tolerate a total defoliation without suffering permanent damage.By the time homeowners notice the leaf damage on their oak trees, most caterpillars have stopped feeding and are entering the non-feeding pupal stage. A stressed tree may not recover from this type of damage, and preferred control can involve the use of insecticides. Always assess the health of your tree with proper monitoring and cultivate a healthy tree through cultural methods (mulching, appropriate watering). For further information, see the links below: