Fully grown larvae enter the soil, pupate, and overwinter in the pupal stage. One generation occurs each year. Throughout development, larvae are exposed and vulnerable to parasites and predators, and these sometimes cause considerable oakworm mortality. The spiny oakworm is common in Alabama. Infestations in most years are small and localized.
Sawtooth oak seems to be a favorite food tree.
Small trees with limited foliage may be completely defoliated by the brood from eggs of a single female. Damage is primarily aesthetic. Defoliation occurs in late season and healthy oaks generally refoliate in the following spring and survive. Loss of foliage, however, retards growth and may result in some dieback of twigs.