Understanding Insect Metamorphosis John E. Woodmansee Photo: Tobacco hornworm on a tomato plant that has been attacked by a parasitic Braconid wasp. The white capsules on its back are the pupal stage ...

Pam in Ashburn think she has insect cocoons outside her balcony. WTOP Garden Editor Mike McGrath identifies that those things are — and while most people fear them, they shouldn't.

Because this insect has a two-year life cycle and reuses the cocoons, by destroying most of the cocoons you should be able to get rid of the insect for the most part.

Remember though that one female can lay 1,000 eggs. Winter cocoon removal can be effective in getting rid of insects for those you can reach and see, which is my first recommendation.

A version of this article appears in print on Sept. 7, 2021, Section D, Page 2 of the New York edition with the headline: Lighting it Up: Using Fluorescent Silk to Weave Nature’s Grooviest Cocoons.

Animals Insects Butterflies anchor cocoons with silk Velcro and seat-belts A new study analyzes the complex and sturdy material’s role in metamorphosis. Andrew Paul Aug 9, 2024 3:06 PM EDT ...

The caterpillar-like insect has larva up to half an inch long and is light green. Larvae feed exclusively on elm tree leaves and spin loose, net-like cocoons that attach to the leaves, according ...

I occasionally write about insect pests and what to do about them. However, I also know that not everyone is an entomologist, and it might be good to take a step backward this week to ensure a better ...