Degree-day maps of base 9°C are now being produced by Soroka, Olfert, and Giffen (2016) using the Harcourt/North Dakota models. Models predicting the development of Alfalfa weevil across the prairies are updated weekly to help growers time their in-field scouting for second-instar larvae. Compare the following predicted development stages and degree-day values from Soroka (2015) to the map below.
As of June 4, 2017, the recent warm weather has resulted in rapid development, indicating that 80% of the hatch is probably complete (less than 20% last week). Larval populations should be predominantly in the first and second instars (less than 10% are predicted to be third instars).
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| Figure 1. Heat units accumulated necessary for the development of Alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica) across the Canadian prairies (April 1-June 4, 2017). |
Remember - Use the photo below as a visual reference to identify alfalfa weevil larvae. Note the white dorsal line, the tapered shape of the abdomen and the dark head capsule.
