Officials: webworms part of natural cycle for trees

While some people may not consider fall webworms the most attractive part of nature, it is unlikely local trees are in jeopardy.

Last week, following concerns raised by local residents, the Advertiser checked in with Centre Wellington Township and Neighbourwoods about the potential of a tent caterpillar infestation

Neighbourwoods coordinator Toni Ellis said the tent caterpillar manifestations are cyclical in nature and not seen every year.

“As far as I know, at this point in the season, they really are not a problem as trees are about to lose their leaves anyway,” she said.

Ellis said she asked officials from Baum Tree Care, one of Neighbourwoods’ volunteer arborists, who confirmed it is not a worry at this point in the season.

Ellis noted people’s inclination to cut an infestation out of trees sometimes means they remove more than they should.

Ellis added that if residents have concerns, they can get in touch with a local certified  arborist.

Centre Wellington Township clerk Kerri O’Kane said in an email that Mat Alain, the township’s urban forestry project manager, stated, “What you are seeing are actually called fall webworm (hyphantria cunea).”

Kane added, “They are similar to tent caterpillars and are not considered harmful to trees since it is approaching the end of the growing season and trees have collected plenty of resources for the year.

“They are a natural part of the ecosystem that provide food for local wildlife.”