spruce budworm
spruce budworm, Larva of a leaf roller moth (Choristoneura fumiferana), one of the most destructive North American pests. It attacks evergreens, feeding on needles and pollen, and can completely defoliate spruce and related trees, causing much loss for the lumber industry and damaging landscapes.
This article was most recently revised and updated by John P. Rafferty.
Citation Information
Article Title:
spruce budworm
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
25 May 2022
Access Date:
November 14, 2026