Fall Webworms Bring Tent Caterpillar Woes to Kawartha Lakes

A recent surge in tent caterpillar populations has been observed in Kawartha Lakes by the Ministry of Natural Resources. The fall webworms, including those in Kawartha Lakes, are likely responsible for the webs and caterpillars seen on trees this summer.

Kavithaa Kandasamy, Media Relations Lead for the Ministry of Natural Resources, stated that 'Recent monitoring by the Ministry of Natural Resources has shown increased numbers of fall webworms...'

It's worth noting that caterpillar populations naturally fluctuate in cycles. Eastern tent caterpillar outbreaks typically occur every 10 years and may last one to three years, while fall webworm populations can remain elevated for two or three years before declining.

Homeowners with ornamental trees affected by the fall webworms can manage them by pruning the infested branches and disposing of the webs in a sealed garbage bag. The Ministry recommends consulting Ontario's forest health conditions website for further information.