Oak Leaf Rollers
The little green worms hanging on a silk thread from Oak trees throughout Pinellas County are Oak Leaf rollers and are harmless – a nuisance but harmless. The little green worms feed on Oak Tree leaves and then do what most caterpillars do – form a cocoon and then turn into a moth.
Minimal Damage in Pinellas
Their feeding is usually of little consequence to the oak trees – there are plenty of leaves for the tree and the worm. In some parts of the country, they could defoliate certain oak species. However, Live Oak and Water Oak, the most abundant oaks in Pinellas County, are not damaged.
Bothersome Pest To Humans
As a nuisance pest (as opposed to a lethal pest) they are very bothersome creatures - clinging to clothes, cars, and bushes and invading our homes and vehicles as hitch-hikers.
The problem is the wind! The wind dislodges them from their lofty dining rooms in the trees and they hang suspended in midair by a thin silk line. As you walk through the area the silk and worms cling to clothes and skin. The other day after spraying a yard, I picked a half dozen or so from my clothes!
It's Only for a Season
The life cycle is short from egg to moth and soon the the little green worms disappear. Best Advice: This too shall pass! Allow the worms to finish their life cycle and soon they will be gone.
