Pupation occurs in yellowish cocoons and lasts 10 to 14 days. Moths emerge from late May to July, mate, and deposit their eggs. There is one generation per year. Control .-Natural control agents include insect parasites of eggs, larvae, and pupae. Predators and viruses and fungus diseases, as well as high and low temperatures, also kill forest tent caterpillars.
Starvation is common when populations exceed the food supply.
Several chemicals and a microbial insecticide are registered for control.