Signs of tussock moth damage are missing needles and bare twigs and branches in the tops of Douglas fir, spruce or other conifers. The tussock moth can completely defoliate the top of a host tree in just one season, leading to severe stress and possible death. The caterpillar form of the tussock moth, is black with very long body hair. For additional information on the plant damage and the insect, please see the PlantTalk script on Douglas-fir tussock moth.
For assistance identifying other insect pest problems, you can visit the eXtension web site: Insect Pests.
