Hairy Caterpillars are armed with stinging hairs on their bodies, these hairs or spikes serve as a defence against predators such as birds or reptiles.
What are they?
The “hairy caterpillar” is a larvae form of what ultimately becomes a moth (commonly known as the White Cedar Moth).
They congregate in large masses, and are foliage eaters. As they feed on their host tree, they tend to blend with the colour of the tree, throughout their various development stages.
Why are they here?
- Typically the caterpillars live on and around White Cedar or Cape Lilac trees.
Once they have stripped the tree of its leaves, or the tree loses its leaves due to Autumn, the caterpillars go looking for more food. - In their hunt for new food, caterpillars can track in and through homes, causing discomfort when contacting skin. Some people are also allergic to the hairs.
How do I get rid of them?
- Lay damp hessian bags flat around the base of the tree.
This will cause caterpillars to congregate underneath the bags overnight. - Lift the bags in the morning and spray the caterpillars with a good aerosol surface spray insecticide.
Did you know hairy caterpillars
Hairy Caterpillars Only live for up to one month, during this life span their bodies go through metamorphises, which results in turning into a moth.
If you would like more information about getting rid of Crawling Insects you can click here >
If you think you might have a Crawling Insect infestation in your home you can contact Knockout Pest Control by Rentokil for a pest inspection. You can call our service team on 1300 858 140. or you can send us an email by using the Contact Form by clicking here
