Tent caterpillars surge in parts of N.B.

The New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources says infestations of tent caterpillars in parts of Bathurst, Woodstock and Mactaquac are defoliating local trees.

New Brunswick is prone to outbreaks of tent caterpillars every 10 to 12 years, according to the department.

The last time the tent caterpillars were found in large numbers was 14 years ago in 1996.

The caterpillars are one of most widespread defoliators of deciduous trees in Canada.

The provincial government said it has no plans for a spray program in order to curtail the outbreak. Tent caterpillars are normally controlled by diseases, parasites and other predators.

The Natural Resources Department said the tent caterpillars feed on the leaves of aspen and other hardwoods.

Once the forest feeding is done, the caterpillars will form yellowish-white cocoons and turn into moths.

Property owners who have a problem with tent caterpillars are urged to keep their trees watered to relieve the trees of extra stress.

Homeowners are also encouraged to shut off their outdoor lights. Adult moths are attracted to lights, so trees that are found in well-lit areas will often have more caterpillar eggs laid on them. The eggs can be removed manually from small trees in the fall.

As well, the department said there are several insecticides available for use against the tent caterpillar.