Silkworms in Central Texas

Silkworms in Central Texas: What Are Those Worms Crawling on You?

Have you ever been in a serious conversation—maybe even a meeting—only to feel something crawling on your neck? You do the jump-and-slap combo, thinking it’s a spider, and it turns out to be a tiny, green worm.

Welcome to springtime in Central Texas.

Those little caterpillars crawling on you? They’re usually oak leafrollers, also called inchworms or oak silkworms. You’ll see them most often in March and April, dangling from trees on fine silk threads or hitching a ride on your shirt.

They’re not dangerous, but they are annoying.

What Are They?

These tiny green worms are the larvae of moths. Most of what you’re seeing this time of year are oak leafrollers, a type of inchworm common in our region. They feed on the tender new leaves of oak trees and a few other deciduous species.

According to KUT, they use their silk threads to “bungee jump” away from predators.

Are They Harmful?

Not really. Most of the time, these caterpillars don’t do lasting damage to trees—especially healthy ones. They may chew a few leaves, but they rarely cause enough defoliation to be a problem. Unless you’ve got a severe infestation, you don’t need to worry.

What Can You Do?

First: Don’t panic.

These little guys are mostly just annoying.

Second: Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Don’t worry about them unless it’s a massive outbreak. Healthy trees can easily handle a bit of leaf nibbling.
• Encourage birds in your yard. Birds, especially chickadees and warblers, love feeding on these caterpillars.
• Avoid unnecessary spraying. In most cases, chemical treatments aren’t needed and can harm pollinators or beneficial insects.
• Trim tree limbs away from patios and walkways to minimize “worm drop zones.”

5 Quick Facts About Central Texas Silkworms

1. They’re the larvae of small moths.
2. They dangle from trees using silk threads to escape danger.
3. They feed on young oak leaves but rarely harm trees long-term.
4. They become more active after warm, wet springs.
5. Their biggest threat is to your personal comfort—not your landscape.

Want to Learn More About Central Texas Spring Pests?

These resources go into more detail if you’re curious or want to learn how to identify them:

Suggested Links:

1. KUT – Inchworm Acrobatics
2. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Oak Leafrollers
3. Texas Insects Resource – Oak Worms
4. iLoveTurf: Worms Hanging From Trees
5. Vulcan Termite: Trees Full of Silkworms

Got questions about spring pests?