Webbed Wonders: Why web covered trees aren’t a cause for alarm
Published: 19/05/2025
Have you noticed trees draped in silky webs or shedding their leaves unusually early? Don’t worry — nature is simply doing its thing!
Each spring, Ermine Moth Caterpillars make their presence known in parks and green spaces, spinning large communal webs that can cover entire trees and hedges. This year, the unseasonably warm April weather has likely led to a boom in their population.
While their webs may look alarming, these caterpillars are harmless to humans (though we recommend not touching them) and play an important role in the ecosystem. By early summer, they transform into delicate moths, adding to the biodiversity of our local environment.
You might see some trees and hedges temporarily lose their leaves due to caterpillar feeding. Fortunately, most trees recover fully, and our landscape team keeps a close eye on their health. In rare cases, young saplings or heavily defoliated trees may not survive the winter, but we plan for this in our annual winter planting scheme.
These tiny creatures may seem like a nuisance, but they’re part of the local ecosystem. Their presence supports local wildlife and contributes to the natural balance of our green spaces in Milton Keynes.
Find out how we care for over 6,000 acres of green space including parks, ancient woodlands, lakes, river valleys and 80 miles of landscaped areas along the grid roads.
