Oleander Moth Caterpillars

Over the past few years, we have seen a noticeable increase in the numbers of Oleander Moth Caterpillars in our area. In just a matter of a few days a heavy population can turn an Oleander plant into what looks like a standing collection of sticks, completely defoliating a once beautiful plant. 

This caterpillar is a bright orange, with tufts of long black hairs. Oleander caterpillars start off as clusters of 25-75 yellowish-green eggs found on the bottom of shrub leaves. After hatching, the group of young caterpillars aggressively feed on leaves until they become ragged and thin.The caterpillars then transition to adulthood in a loose, silk-like cocoon sometimes found at the bottom of the plant’s trunk and in corners of a nearby structure.  The new insects emerge as distinctive winged moths with a bluish-black body, white spots, and a red stomach. They can be seen hovering over foliage, feeding on the remainder of leaves caterpillars left behind.

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When damage is spotted early on, plants can be treated before they fall victim to complete defoliation. For small infestations, remove caterpillars by hand and drop them in a bucket of soapy water. A more severe infestation will need the attention of a certified spray technician. Treatment must fully cover the shrub foliage, branches, and soil area to successfully eliminate Oleander caterpillars. Caterpillars that are tricky to spot or that may have dropped to the ground can easily make their way back to their feeding spot. 

For more information, please visit https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/oleander_caterpillar.htm.