Orange Spot on Ceiling Turns Black "Worms": Moth Eggs Hatching

Orange spot on ceiling turns black in 2 days. Tiny worm-like bugs, some falling on silk threads. Two similar spots found—one with worms, one with black eggs. Lexington, SC.

What Happened

Orange spot = fresh moth/butterfly egg mass. Black "worms" = newly hatched caterpillars (larvae).

• Female moth entered through door/window, laid eggs on wall/ceiling.
• Larvae hatch, spin silk threads to "balloon" (catch wind) or lower to ground.
• Completely harmless. Not spiders. Not infesting.

Action

• Vacuum or wipe off with damp cloth.
• Check screens on windows/doors.
• No pesticide needed.

Common in spring/summer. One generation, then gone.