Public Works and Environmental Services

Fairfax County, Virginia

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our administrative offices are open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mon - Fri

703-324-1770
TTY 711

12055 Government Center Parkway
Suite 518, Fairfax, Va 22035

Brian Keightley,
Division Director, Urban Forest Management

Caterpillar Look-alikes to Spongy Moth

The spongy moth is just one of many insects that feed on tree leaves. There are several caterpillars common to Fairfax County which are often mistaken for spongy moth. Each of these has definite identifying characteristics which are true to the species. No two insect species have the same characteristics. The information provided here will aid you in differentiating the spongy moth caterpillar from others.

There are several other species of insects that can also cause damage to trees. The correct identification of the problem insect is essential to controlling the insect properly. Fortunately, the control of many of these pests is rarely necessary since they seldom cause severe damage.

For more information, please contact the Fairfax County Forest Pest Branch at 703-324-1770, TTY 711, or by email.  You may also visit the Virginia Cooperative Extension for more information about pesticide safety and insect identification and control measures. 

Fairfax Virtual Assistant