Which pest is known for spinning silken threads in the tops of trees?

The spongy moth is well-known for spinning silken threads in the tops of trees, particularly during its larval stage. These threads can often be seen as webbing leading to a noticeable presence in the canopy of infested trees. The presence of these silken threads is a key characteristic of spongy moth infestations, as they use these threads to anchor themselves and create protective environments while feeding on the foliage.

This behavior of spinning silk can impact the health of trees, as it can lead to defoliation and stress on trees, particularly in heavy infestations. The spongy moth was previously termed the gypsy moth, which has caused confusion; however, the name change reflects the importance of using more accurate and sensitive terminology, especially in an educational context.

In contrast, other pests listed do not exhibit the same type of web-spinning behavior associated with the spongy moth, making this identification crucial in understanding pest impacts on forestry and forest health.