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Catawba Worms: Control or Sell for Bait

Catalpa trees stripped yearly by catawba worms in Alabama. Options: spray Bt when caterpillars small, or soil-applied systemic (Bayer Advanced). Or sell to bait shops—fishermen pay well.

Decision

If trees ornamental: treat.
If large trees: systemic easier.
If don't mind defoliation: collect and sell.

Worms don't kill trees; they're a resource.

Pests: Green Caterpillars on Hybrid Ash: Identifying Inchworms and Management Options; Orange Worms in Acorns: Weevil Larvae, Minimal Impact; Tan Worms in Kitchen Sink/Strainer: Need Photo or Sample; Oak Loopers Defoliating Michigan Oak: Natural Cycles, Little Control Possible; Preventing Catalpa Worms (Catawba Worms) on Catalpa Trees; Restoring Catalpa Worms for Fish Bait; Growing Catawba Trees from Seed Pods: What You Need to Know; Honey Locust Loopers: Seasonal Management; Growing Catalpa Trees for Fishing Worms; Catalpa Trees and Catawba Worms: The Fisherman's Secret Bait Source

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