Plant species matters in the distribution of Lepidoptera larvae in migratory songbird habitat

Caterpillars were collected from native (hawthorn, arrow-wood viburnum, silky dogwood, grey dogwood) and exotic (autumn olive, Morrow's honeysuckle) shrub species at Bald Eagle and Yellow Creek State Parks. Caterpillar counts were significantly higher on native species, supporting the hypothesis that native plant species provide greater habitat value.