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| Tussock Moth Caterpillar Update |
| Some may remember the Tussock Moth caterpillar outbreak last year and the concerns that many KICA members had regarding their impact on the island. |
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| In 2004, KICA invited two representatives from the South Carolina Forestry Division to discuss the caterpillars. They were Liz Gilland (Office of Urban Forestry) and Laurie Ried (Entomologist). |
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| It was agreed that the caterpillars are a nuisance and are capable of causing damage to foliage. Neither Ms. Gilland nor Ms. Ried saw any evidence of decline in oak trees due to the caterpillars. They informed KICA that several generations could hatch per year. However, the initial hatch in early spring is the worst and the numbers should be significantly fewer in the next hatches. As a matter of fact, KICA saw evidence of another hatch later in 2004, but saw no caterpillars. |
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| Control was the major concern with most members who contacted KICA. Thankfully, predators do a good job controlling the caterpillar population. Birds, parasitic wasps, and assassin bugs all feed on or utilize the larva and caterpillars. To control future outbreaks, remove cocoons off of structures (buildings, etc.) with a pressure washer, collect the cocoons and dispose of them. Please wear gloves as the cocoons are made of the hairs of the caterpillar and some people may be allergic to them. |
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| While the caterpillars can be destructive, South Carolina Forestry Division representatives saw no damage to trees during their visit last year. They felt that the trees were healthy enough to handle the stress that could be put upon them by the insects. The Tussock Moth is a native to this area and as such, it has built-in control measures (other predators). KICA will continue to monitor the trees around the island. If you see a problem, please contact KICA’s Director of Land Management, Dave Achey, at: (843) 768-2315 or Dave.Achey@kiawah-owners.org. He will be glad to take a look at specific trees and consult the Forestry Department if the need arises. |
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