These insects may be a serious problem since a large population can destroy thousands of seedlings in a few weeks. The head, body and appendages are covered with gray scales and the forewings are reddish brown with silver-gray markings. These markings are most easily seen under magnification. In the field they appear to be simply small gray moths. It is one of the most important pests of seedlings and young trees in the south.
Damage is caused by feeding of the larval stage.
The adult moths probably do not feed at all and are short-lived. The damaged tip, infested with larvae of the Nantucket pine tip moth, will likely die. Damage of the Twig girdler may be found on several species of hardwood trees. It is most common in the South but occurs over much of the eastern and southern United States. Pecan, hickories and persimmon are the favored hosts in Alabama.