How to identify and get rid of the eastern tent caterpillar
When caterpillars go camping in your favorite trees
Do you feel like someone is putting Halloween decorations in April on your trees? Those webs aren’t fake, and they’re not from spiders either!
If you’ve ever noticed large, web-like tents in the forks of your tree branches during the early spring, you’re likely dealing with eastern tent caterpillars. These pests are more than just an eyesore; they can cause significant defoliation in your fruit trees if their numbers get out of hand.
Eastern tent caterpillars emerge in the early spring, shortly after the trees start to bud. The adult moths lay their eggs in late summer, and the caterpillars hatch the following spring, ready to feed on the fresh leaves. Managing their presence early in the year can help keep your trees healthy and your yard free from their tent camping.
How to identify eastern tent caterpillar
Eastern tent caterpillars have large, webbed tents they create in trees, typically in the early spring. These caterpillars also have a white stripe running down the center of their back, with blue and black markings along their sides. Their bodies are covered in slender hairs, making them look fuzzy.
In certain years, these caterpillars can be rather abundant and make a mess of your fruit trees. If you see a bunch of these silk tents around your property, then you should probably take some action.
How big are eastern tent caterpillars?
Eastern tent caterpillars can grow up to 2 inches long
Where do eastern tent caterpillars live?
You’ll find eastern tent caterpillars in the eastern part of the United States, especially in the Midwest and East Coast. They like the branches on trees, particularly in fruit trees like cherry, apple, peach, and plum. They aren’t usually found in homes but can be spotted in yards and orchards close to the house.
How to get rid of eastern tent caterpillars
While it can be nearly impossible to eliminate all eastern tent caterpillars from your property, there are a few things you can do to keep them from causing too much damage:
- Pruning: Remove and destroy the tents by pruning the affected branches early in the morning or evening when the caterpillars are inside.
- Manual removal: Use a broom or a stick to knock down the tents and remove the caterpillars from the tree.
- Encouraging natural predators: Birds and beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps, can help control the population.
- Try Pestie!
Treat eastern tent caterpillars with Pestie
If you're still having trouble keeping eastern tent caterpillars away, the best option is to use a pro-grade, effective pest control solution like Pestie.
Pestie is a do-it-yourself pest control solution that's specially designed to keep eastern tent caterpillars and other pests away from your home.
With Pestie, you can rest easy knowing that your living space is protected and free of creepy crawlies. And the best part? It's designed for people, pets, and the planet, so you can say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to peace of mind!
- Save hundreds compared to traditional annual pest plans
- People, pet, and planet-friendly
- Pro-grade customized formulas
Quick facts
- Scientific name
Malacosoma Americanum
- Colors
Black with white stripe
- Life span
6-8 weeks
- Diet
Leaves of fruit trees
How dangerous are Eastern Tent Caterpillars?
Low danger risk
Eastern tent caterpillars can defoliate trees if left unchecked, but they don’t hurt people. However, some reports have shown that the caterpillars can be toxic to horses, especially pregnant mares.
When tent caterpillars feed and digest their food, they give off a little heat. When they do this in a tight group, they can generate enough heat to be warmer than the temperature outside.
FAQs
Grant specializes in the pest control and AgTech industries, blending scientific expertise with creative storytelling.