Egg Masses on House Exterior: Moth Eggs, Not a Threat

Weekly orange, black, beige, or tan egg clusters on siding, garage doors, and awnings in North Carolina are moth eggs. Different colors = different species (armyworms, loopers, etc.). Caterpillars feed on grasses, weeds, trees—not structures.

What to Know

• No structural damage.
• Hatch in 1-2 weeks; larvae disperse to vegetation.
• Peak in warm months; decline with frost.
• Washing off is cosmetic—more will appear.

Management

1. Reduce outdoor lights at night (attracts egg-laying moths).
2. Trim vegetation away from house.
3. If caterpillars damage landscape plants, treat plants with Bt.
4. Ignore eggs on structure—they're harmless.

No insecticide needed on house. Focus on landscape protection if needed.