California Oakworm – Phryganida californica

California Oakworm   Scientific Name:  Phryganidia californica Common Name:  California oakworm, California oak moth Appearance:  California oakworm is a tanned grey moth with distinguishing veins on the upper side of its wings. It has a size of 13 mm with a total wingspan of 30 mm. The male oakworms feature a pair of feathery antennae. It also has a caterpillar-like yellowish green larva with dark olive and black stripes on the sides. Host Plants or Food: California oakworm feeds off oak leaves, with one specific species of oaks called “Coast live oak.” Territory: Throughout North America and Western USA Mode of Damage:  They are active leaf chewers that may defoliate the entire tree. However, healthy oak trees have better chances of surviving the infestations compared to younger ones. Habits and Life History: California oakworm feed on oak trees, especially along the California coast, hence called California oakworms. The females lay eggs on the underside of the leaves in groups of 24 or 36. The eggs turn pink from white when they are about to hatch. After hatching, the young larva feeds on the lower side of the leaves only, leaving the upper side intact. However, the upper side turns brown as a result. Once the larva has grown enough, they hang from the leaves, branches, and stems and form a colourful white or yellow case to pupate in it. There may be 2 or 3 generations per year.