Caterpillar Droppings Under Trees: Normal Seasonal Occurrence

Those "Seeds" on Your Sidewalk

The small, cylindrical pellets appearing under pecan and other trees each August are caterpillar frass (droppings). Their distinctive segmented appearance—often with a visible midline seam—matches the description of 1/8-inch diameter objects with a central seam.

Seasonal Pattern

Late summer brings peak caterpillar feeding activity. Multiple species feed on tree foliage, producing droppings ranging from sesame-seed to pea-size. You may even hear them pattering through leaves on quiet mornings.

No Control Needed

Late-season defoliation causes minimal harm to trees, which have already completed most photosynthetic production for the year. Caterpillar populations naturally decline as they pupate within 1-2 weeks. They may not return to the same trees next year.

Common Culprits

• Various moth caterpillars (loopers, prominents, etc.)
• Tomato hornworms (on solanaceous plants)
• Fall webworms (in webbed branch tips)