Which of the following can assist in controlling spongy moth larvae?

Natural predators like birds play a crucial role in controlling spongy moth larvae populations. Birds, such as blue jays and chickadees, actively seek out and consume these larvae as a food source when they are present. This natural predation helps to keep the spongy moth population in check, thereby mitigating damage to trees and forests. Using biological control methods, such as promoting the presence of these predators, is an effective way to manage pest populations in a sustainable manner without resorting to chemical pesticides.

In contrast, while heavy rainfall can influence some pest populations by drowning larvae or creating unfriendly conditions for them, it is not as consistent or reliable as biological control through predators. Increased temperatures may actually encourage spongy moth development and can exacerbate infestations. Agricultural practices, while they can include measures to manage pests, are not specifically geared towards controlling spongy moth larvae compared to the direct predation offered by birds.