07/06/2025
🐛 Tent Caterpillars Are Back! 🐛
If you've spotted webby nests in your trees lately—you’re not alone. Tent caterpillars are making their seasonal appearance, and in Alberta, we typically see a population surge every 10 years... and yep, it’s almost that time again!
These little critters can defoliate trees quickly if left unchecked, especially fruit trees and aspens. While most healthy trees recover, it’s best to manage them early. 🌳
Here’s your IGORNatur Prevention + Care Guide:
🔎 Inspect early – Look for silk tents in branch crooks
✂️ Remove by hand – Prune small infestations in the early morning or evening when caterpillars are inside
🔥 Dispose properly – Destroy the nests (don’t just drop them!)
🧼 Soap spray – A gentle mix of dish soap + water can help control small clusters
🦋 Encourage birds – Leave natural predators like robins and chickadees undisturbed
No need to panic—but a little maintenance now protects your trees all summer long. 🌱
And remember....we're always here to help (even with the squeamish stuff).
Attention Devon!
You may have noticed some of our fuzzy friends, the forest tent caterpillars making an appearance! These caterpillars tend to surge in population about every 10 years in Alberta.
🌿 The good news? Most healthy trees can handle light to moderate defoliation and bounce back without issue. Outbreaks for these guys are usually short, and natural predators like birds and beetles help keep their numbers in check.
👉 If you’re seeing a heavier presence on your property, visit https://www.devon.ca/Services/Town-Services/Weed-Pest-Control/Forest-Tent-Caterpillars to learn how to safely manage them.