Woolly Aphid

Found on the leaves, branches, and roots of host plants such as apple trees, elms, and alders during spring and summer months.

Herbivorous; they use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant sap (phloem) from host trees and shrubs.

They produce a white, waxy, cotton-like covering for protection against predators and desiccation. They are known for 'dancing' or wagging their bodies when disturbed and often travel in large, fluffy-looking colonies.

They can be plant pests, causing curled leaves, yellowing, and honeydew production which leads to sooty mold; however, they are a vital food source for beneficial insects like lacewings, hoverflies, and ladybugs.