Janelle:

It is possible, but I cannot determine that without a little more information.  Are the trees healthy? Do they have any dead limbs or wilted  leaves, maybe starting at the top of the tree?  Do you see anything unusual about the trunk?  Any holes or unusual markings?  Can you send pictures of the casings and any pictures of possible tree damage.  This would help me better answer your question.

Thanks, 

These are old trees and some of the smaller branches near the bottom are leafless and black.  Some of the leaves have bite marks around the edges and some have brownish markings on the edges.  I think they're aspen.  It's hard to make note of these things because the branches start so high up. Overall the trees seem to be in good shape.  I was able to get some good pics of the "insect husks", or whatever they are.  I'll try to send them.

Thanks, that will be helpful.

On Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 7:23 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Janelle:

I haven't forgotten you and am still researching.

Thanks!

Hi,  These look like the bud scales off the aspen.  The bud scale is the outer covering around the leaf buds, once the bud starts to swell and grow the new leaf tissue pushes the bud scales off.  Very common to see on aspen and cottonwoods. If you want me to confirm you bring a sample to the plant clinic.  I've attached a photo.  

Thanks