Nest in my tree - Ask Extension
I have a “nest” high up in the pecan tree. It looks like a worm or spider nest. It is big and to high up to get. I want to know what’s going to ...
Knowledgebase
Nest in my tree #816266
Asked November 10, 2022, 4:13 PM EST
I have a “nest” high up in the pecan tree. It looks like a worm or spider nest. It is big and to high up to get. I want to know what’s going to come out of it.
Henrico County Virginia
Expert Response
That is the result of a fall webworm. https://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/2018/08/24/fall-webworms-noticeable-in-pecans-as-summer-wains/
The caterpillars make the silk enclosure to protect themselves while the eat the foliage. The caterpillars are done and have begun to pupate. The pupa are likely in the leaf litter under the tree. They will emerge next year as a moth.
We usually don't recommend any treatments of fall webworms since they don't typically do much damage to the health of the tree. Also, based on the height of your tree, it would take a commercial applicator treat, a cost that would likely be prohibitive.
The silk webbing will break down over the winter.
The caterpillars make the silk enclosure to protect themselves while the eat the foliage. The caterpillars are done and have begun to pupate. The pupa are likely in the leaf litter under the tree. They will emerge next year as a moth.
We usually don't recommend any treatments of fall webworms since they don't typically do much damage to the health of the tree. Also, based on the height of your tree, it would take a commercial applicator treat, a cost that would likely be prohibitive.
The silk webbing will break down over the winter.
