Fuzzy saltmarsh caterpillar spotted in a Houston garden, a harmless yet garden-chomping pest.
Residents of Houston are noticing a surge in fuzzy black saltmarsh caterpillars, known as Estigmene acrea, in their backyards. While these caterpillars are harmless to humans, they may pose a threat to local gardens as they feast on leafy plants. Experts from the Texas A&M Department of Entomology confirm their presence, and gardeners are advised to handle them with care. Despite their cuteness, these pests can damage cherished plants, prompting the need for gardeners to remain alert during the spring season.
Houston, hold on to your green thumbs! The neighborhood has been buzzing recently with the emergence of a unique little critter—the fuzzy black saltmarsh caterpillar, scientifically known as Estigmene acrea. These little guys have been spotted in backyards, and while they look cute with their fuzzy attire, they might not be the best friends of your garden.
Saltmarsh caterpillars, often recognized by their fuzzy black coverings, are harmless to humans. That’s right! They don’t sting or bite, causing no harm to those who stumble across them in the wild. However, if you’re a gardener, beware! These fuzzy buddies love munching on delicate foliage, which means your cherished plants may end up on their lunch menu.
Folks in Houston are not alone in their caterpillar sightings; experts from the Texas A&M Department of Entomology have confirmed these critters are making their rounds. As they wiggle their way through local yards, many may find themselves wondering whether these cozily furry insects are planting roots among the veggies.
Saltmarsh caterpillars are not just a pretty sight; they have an interesting superhero alter ego! Once they finish their caterpillar stage, they transform into striking tiger moths. This metamorphosis is a fascinating part of their life cycle, which also includes a dormant phase that can last many years. That means these little guys could party in your garden for up to 14 years!
If you think saltmarsh caterpillars look similar to woollybears, you’re absolutely correct! While both of these fuzzy caterpillars share some similarities, they belong to different species. Woollybears have an interesting reputation thanks to an old wives’ tale that suggests the size of their bands can predict winter weather. However, this is all just a myth; the size and color of these bands are dependent on the caterpillar’s stage of development and what they’re snacking on!
Despite their cuteness, these fuzzy caterpillars should be treated with care. It’s advisable to wear gloves when handling them, just in case they irritate your skin. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you’re looking to remove them, grab your gloves or tools, and gently relocate them rather than squishing them.
Saltmarsh caterpillars have a particular taste for leafy greens, which is why they may pose a threat to your garden. While you might have dreams of a flourishing vegetable patch, these pests could devour your hard work in a jiffy! Other fuzzy caterpillars, like the yellow woollybear, are also making appearances around Texas, so keep your eyes peeled.
If you love these fuzzy little fellows and want to support them without risk to your garden, consider creating a habitat using native plants. For example, planting milkweed can attract these fuzzy friends, providing a safe space for them to thrive outside of your precious flowerbed.
As spring unfolds in Houston, residents might find themselves sharing their yards with these soft, furry inhabitants. While they can be harmful to your prized plants, saltmarsh caterpillars are generally harmless to humans. So, keep your gloves handy, observe from a distance, and don’t forget: these fuzzy companions are just doing their part in the grand cycle of nature!
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