UF/IFAS GLOBAL BLOGS
Introduction This Spring has been very favorable for several moth species, and among them is the Tussock Moth. You may be seeing a profuse amount of the moth caterpillars around your home, work or farm. The major host… Read More
The very hungry caterpillar The tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta) is not a worm. It is a caterpillar, a very hungry caterpillar. They are called hornworms because they have a harmless, red horn on their abdomen. These common garden pests are known for eating entire leaves off of… Read More
The giant swallowtail butterfly’s caterpillars are unmistakable. They look like bird droppings. These caterpillars feed on citrus plants hence the nickname “orange dog.” The caterpillar below is feeding on Hercules club. References Florida Museum of Natural History
Monarchs are big, showy orange butterflies. Seeing one skip through your garden inevitably brings a smile to both young and old. How can we lure these beauties to our back yard where we can enjoy the lift they… Read More
Are you being inundated by furry caterpillars and fuzzy white cocoons? You’re not alone! The tussock caterpillars are out in force and they can be quite a nuisance for folks living under or around heavy tree cover. They… Read More
Tussock moth caterpillar (Orgyia spp.) Why the oak trees? Over the last couple of weeks, if you have oak trees, you have probably seen tussock moth caterpillars (Orgyia spp.). They crawl all over anything underneath the trees. Oak… Read More
Spring is the perfect time to add color to your landscape. A butterfly garden can accomplish this goal, and here’s what you need to do. First, find out what butterflies live in your area and concentrate on attracting… Read More
Spring is the perfect time to add color to your landscape. A butterfly garden can accomplish this goal, and here’s what you need to do. First, find out what butterflies live in your area and concentrate on attracting… Read More
Skeletonized leaves; Help! Help! What’s killing my Ficus trees? These are the questions, subject lines, and visits to our Extension office that have filled my days the last couple weeks. Residents saying, “It sounds like it’s raining under… Read More
