Eastern Tent Caterpillar: Identifying Characteristics
Identifying the injury:
The major evidence of attack is the white web or tent constructed in the crotch of branches. The tent can grow to be 1' wide and 2' in length or larger.
Identifying the insect:
Full-grown caterpillars can be seen lounging in the tent or chomping on nearby leaves. Full-grown caterpillars are 2 to 2½" long, have a black head, and a body covered with long, light brown hair. The caterpillar has an unbroken, white stripe on its back bordered by yellow, brown, and black wavy lines. The moths emerge from the cocoons and work their way out through the webbing. The moths are reddish brown with white stripes.
Susceptible trees:
The favorite hosts for the eastern tent caterpillars are wild cherry, hawthorn, and wild plum. Many other trees serve as hosts, particularly other trees of the genus Prunus.