Density and Developmental Stage of Range Caterpillar Hemileuca oliviae Cockerell, as Affected by Topographic Position

Abstract

Population density and larval development of range caterpillar (Hemileuca oliviae Cockerell) were influenced by topographic position. Larval populations on ridges and upper slopes were in earlier developmental stages and had lower densities than populations on swales and lower slopes. Plant species composition, vegetative productivity, ground cover, and soil surface temperatures were suggested as habitat factors that might explain these differences.