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Willow Sawfly

Nematus salicis

Not Evaluated

About Willow Sawfly

A defoliator of willows across Europe found in wetlands and riparian areas. Larvae feed gregariously on willow leaves from May to autumn.

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Did You Know?

Multiple overlapping generations allow continuous feeding pressure throughout the growing season.

How to Identify Willow Sawfly

Willow Sawfly (Nematus salicis) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Tenthredinidae. Adults typically measure 7-9 mm (adult).

Willow Sawfly Habitat

Willow Sawfly is found in wetlands habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Willow Sawfly Diet and Feeding

Willow Sawfly is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.

Where Is Willow Sawfly Found?

Willow Sawfly can be found in Europe, where it inhabits wetlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Willow Sawfly can be found

Is Willow Sawfly Dangerous?

Willow Sawfly belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Willow Sawfly Role in Nature

Willow Sawfly is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.

Seasonal Activity

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Willow Sawfly

What does Willow Sawfly look like?

The Willow Sawfly typically measures 7-9 mm (adult).

Where is Willow Sawfly found?

The Willow Sawfly is found in Europe and typically inhabits wetlands environments.

What does Willow Sawfly eat?

The Willow Sawfly feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.

Is Willow Sawfly dangerous to humans?

The Willow Sawfly belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.

Is Willow Sawfly endangered?

The Willow Sawfly is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.

What is an interesting fact about Willow Sawfly?

Multiple overlapping generations allow continuous feeding pressure throughout the growing season.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Willow Sawfly (Nematus salicis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willow-sawfly

MLA:
"Willow Sawfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willow-sawfly.