Oak Leaf Roller
Archips semiferanus (Walker)
Talerico, R. L., 1978. Major hardwood defoliators of the Eastern United States. U.S. Dep. Agric., Home and Garden Bull. 224.
The rollers are a large group of insects that are still being identified, described, and studied by experts. This roller is periodically a serious defoliator of native oaks in the eastern half of the United States and adjacent Canada. Although all oaks are fed on, defoliation is usually most severe along ridge tops where white and chestnut oak frequently occurs. Occasional feeding has been reported on witchhazel and apple. Severe infestations have occurred recently in Pennsylvania.
During July, masses of 40 to 50 eggs are laid at the base of large branches and rough bark patches on both tree trunks and limbs. The masses are covered with hairs from the female’s body. These eggs begin hatching in late April. The larvae either fold or roll individual leaves together, forming an enclosure in which to rest and feed or from which they move out to feed. Full-grown larvae are about 29 mm (1.2 in) long. The head is black, and the body can be various shades of green.
Pupation occurs in silken cocoons within the roll or in bark crevices. The moths emerge in late June and July. At rest, the wings of the adult appear bell shaped. The forewing varies in color pattern but ranges from creamy brown at the base to gray at the tip. Midway down the wing is a distinct dark brown or gray oblique band across the wing. The wingspan is about 18 to 22 mm (0.7 to 0.9 in).
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