Some larvae complete development in 13 months, others require 20-22 months. Larvae overwinter in silken cells under the bark. The pupal stage lasts 13-23 days, with an average of 18.5 days. There are two peaks of emergence, the first in late May, and the other soon after mid-June. A single generation has been reported in the North Central states, with adults active in July, and larvae pupating in June.
Adults are active mostly on hot sunny days.
Both DB and ABB treat burr knots as wounds, with females ovipositing at such sites. Reddish frass at burr knots is a sign of infestation. While the burr knots themselves disrupt sap flow, girdling is enhanced once larvae are present. Furthermore, once established, feeding may extend beyond the burr knot into healthy tissue. Chronic infestations will cause a decline in vigor, yield, and may rarely kill the tree.