I was checking out my stuff, when we noticed that a very nice young pine tree was looking a little weird. Upon aproaching it, several branches stated moving, there were small green long (apx 1") cattapillers with black heads all along the tips, (about 50 per branch) and they would all stand to attention when disturbed. they seemed to be pretending to be pine needles. Well, this was a new one for me and my and my kids were just amazed. We kept suprising them to see them all simutaneously stand up.

Any input would be helpfull - I am tempted to just cut off the tips of the branches, but it is a very nice tree about 6' tall.

Thanks for your help
SR

Reply to post by shelly, on May 13, 2000 at 16:24:00:

Sure sounds like saw-fly larvae to me. Check with local extension agent or garden center for control, they can do much damage to the foliage in a very short time.

Reply to post by Wayne, on May 13, 2000 at 16:24:00:

You can pick/wash the pests off such a small tree.
Be aware that some larvae will form coccoons at the base of the tree, so look there and dispatch any you find.