Normally when we see a thick web in our windowsill or one of the trees in our yard, we immediately think of one thing: spiders! However, there are other types of insects that are notorious for creating enormous sacs or networks of thick webbing. It could very well be another creepy crawler that has become quite active in North Carolina in recent years, the Forest Tent Caterpillar, also known as the Eastern Tent Caterpillar.
What Does the Forest Tent Caterpillar Look Like?
The Forest Tent Caterpillar) has become increasingly common in North Carolina in recent years, and has become a concern for many homeowners. While the caterpillar is not technically dangerous, their giant nests are quite noticeable, and can make some homeowners nervous. You can identify the forest tent caterpillar by its two inch long body with dark oblique lines down its middle back.
Where Does the Eastern Tent Caterpillar Live?
They are commonly found spinning their enormous and thick webs between the legs of picnic tables, under or around the decks of homes, or trees, particularly cherry trees. However, they are sometimes found in the windows or window sills of homes as well.
Are Forest Tent Caterpillars Dangerous?
Eastern or Forest Tent Caterpillars are not dangerous, and do not present a threat to you, your children, or your pets. While they are covered in small hairs that could be misinterpreted as spikes, they do not bite, sting, or poison. They usually just keep to themselves, determinedly spinning away and building their webs. Once complete, they spend most of their time in their webs resting and molting, waiting to turn into moths.
How Can I Get Rid of Tent Caterpillars?
As stated above, tent caterpillars are not usually dangerous. However, if they have made their web in or on your window sill or deck, or perhaps in your favorite tree, you may want them gone. In that case, there are a couple of ways to get rid of the Forest Tent Caterpillar.
- You can wipe their web off of your window or deck with a towel or cloth, or with a glove on. If you do not want to get that close, you can use a broom or a mop to do the same.
- If you do not want to remove the web completely, or are looking for an alternative, elegant solution, you can jab their web full of holes with a stick or broom handle. This will allow birds and predators access to the larvae inside of the web, and voila.
Keep Your Home Pest-Free with Clegg’s Pest Control
Our experienced team of pest control professionals are waiting and ready to leap into action defending your home with a variety of safe and effective pest control solutions. When you’re dealing with Forest Tent Caterpillars, give our team at Clegg’s Pest Control a call. We offer sustainable pest control solutions to remove pests and keep them out for good. Call our Clegg’s team or contact our team online to schedule your free inspection today!