Shoreham vs. The Elm Zigzag Sawfly: What a New Invasive Means for Your Trees
Michigan’s first confirmed elm zigzag sawfly detection was reported in St. Clair County in July 2026, putting attention on elm health. For Shoreham homeowners, pest control treatment can support tree monitoring and home protection locally. What the Elm Zigzag Sawfly Does The elm zigzag sawfly ( Aproceros leucopoda ) feeds on elm leaves. According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, young larvae create distinctive zigzag feeding patterns along leaf edges, while older larvae consume larger portions of foliage. Repeated defoliation can place stress on trees, although healthy elms can often produce new leaves and recover. The state says the insect does not currently pose a significant threat to people, animals, agriculture, or natural resources. Why Tree Stress Deserves Attention A leaf-feeding pest is different from a wood-destroying insect, and homeowners should not assume that sawfly activity automatically means termites or carpenter ants will fo...