Webworms Taking Over The Lake of the Ozarks

While exploring the Lake of the Ozarks, you may have noticed webs in some of the trees. However, these webs are not created by spiders; they are created by an insect call webworms. Your Lake of the Ozarks pest control company has all the information you need on these pests and what you can do to get rid of them.

What Are Webworms?

Although they are called webworms, they are not worms, in fact, they are a type of moth. They feed on almost all tree leaves including walnut, hickory, elm, mulberry and willow, just to name a few. In the late spring or early summer, adults emerge and lay their eggs on the underside of leaves. They are hair-covered masses of several hundred eggs. The larvae will gather and produce a silky web that will surround the colony. They will feed inside the web and make it bigger as they grow. After feeding, they will find a protected place to spin their cocoon and pupate. After they exit their cocoon, adults will be either all white or white with black spots. Webworms will have two generations a year. 

Are They Harmful To Trees?

Webworms are known for their distinctive webs that they create on the end of tree branches. Each nest could contain hundreds of caterpillars that feed together. By late summer or early fall, the nests may measure three feet across. In addition to the caterpillars, the nest contains excrement, dried leaves and cast skins. Although these nests contain hundreds of feeding caterpillars, they are only harmful to the aesthetics of the tree. Webworms are more of a nuisance than a threat to a healthy tree. Because trees are about to drop their leaves, a large feeding will not hurt a healthy tree. However, small trees that completely lose their leaves, may be weakened. 

How To Get Rid Of Webworms

Although webworms aren't likely to hurt your tree, they can be a nuisance. If their web is small and easy to reach, you can take the web out by hand or with a rake. However, if the web is large and hard to reach, it is better to call a professional pest control company at the Lake of the Ozarks. It is best to take care of these webworms early, so they do not create big webs on the trees. In addition, if fewer adults form, there will be fewer eggs laid the following year. 

Get Rid Of Pests With A B Pest Control & Insulation

A B Pest Control & Insulation can help you get rid of all pests, including webworms. Although it's officially autumn, there are still pests that will invade your home. If your trees have webworms or any other insects, contact A B Pest Control & Insulation. Using a professional pest control company at the Lake of the Ozarks will help ensure your home is protected from a pest infestation. 

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