Winter Moth

Operophtera brumata

One of the few moths to embrace the chill of winter. With a preference for night flying, these light brown moths are often spotted resting on tree trunks during winter days. The females, with their short wings, were not meant for flight, but they have a splendid way of reaching new heights. They climb tree trunks, filling the air with sweet pheromones to beckon their male counterparts. The females lay their eggs on bark which remain dormant until spring. When the little green caterpillars hatch they are ready to munch on the tender leaves of broad-leaved trees.