Canker Worm Info

Canker Worm Larvae Characteristics

The eggs of both the fall and the spring cankerworm species hatch in spring and turn into larvae. Cankerworm larvae are light green to brownish-green, often with a darker stripe down the back. They are sometimes called inch worms or loopers. Cankerworm larvae spin "silken threads" that allow them to:

• escape predators
• be blown by the wind to other trees
• drop to the ground and burrow into the soil when full grown

How Banding Works

Tree Banding is a mechanical barrier that is fitted to the tree. Since the moths are flightless, they are required to crawl up the trunk in order to lay their eggs. The band is designed to force the bug to crawl over the band, not underneath.

We use a non-toxic sticky substance, Tanglefoot, that is applied in a timed manner that allows it to be in place for more then 95% of the migration period.

There are a number of methods out there that are used and 'acceptable', however some methods are more effective than others. We have all seen the pre-made, one size fits all bands. They sure are pretty, and the squirrels love them! There is no way to prevent them from going under the band and using the insulation for their nests. While they are fantastic at preventing the build up of debris, they offer a very small (1-2 inch) layer of protection on the underside of the plastic.

Our bands are completely sealed on both sides, therefore preventing squirrels (we have also found mice, roaches, spiders, etc) in these bands when we were asked to remove them for new customers.

This leads to our next feature...FREE REMOVAL. Leaving the band on over extended periods of time is as destructive to the tree as the Canker Worms can be! Insects and mold can devastate the tree as well as leave a long lasting ring around the trunk.