Branch mortality may occur in stands defoliated several years in a row. During severe outbreaks the same stand may be defoliated twice in a single season. Several years of complete defoliation may lead to considerable tree mortality. The eggs are scattered randomly from the tree tops. The eggs overwinter.
Hatching occurs in late spring, usually the second year after deposition.
After four to five molts, the adults emerge in late summer, mate, and lay eggs until the cold weather sets in. When populations warrant control, walkingsticks can be readily controlled by one of several insecticides applied to the foliage. Edited in April 1997, based on material developed in 1989. Lawrence K. Forcier, Director, University of Vermont Extension, Burlington, Vermont. University of Vermont Extension and U.S. Department of Agriculture, cooperating, offer education and employment to everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status.