Here’s Why You Might See Tape On Hudson Valley Trees This Summer

Sometimes when you see something you may think to yourself, “Oh, that makes sense”. Other times, you may question what something is and end up doing your own research.

If you happen to see tape on trees within the Hudson Valley this summer, you’ll now understand why.

Do You Remember When It Was 'Raining Poop" In The Hudson Valley?

Yes, at one point in 2024, it was “raining poop” in the Hudson Valley. During this time, the area was filled with those tiny, black caterpillars. These pests are known as spongy moth caterpillars.

101.5 WPDH shared that spongy moths are

"Formerly known by the insensitive name "gypsy moth", the invasive species was brought to America from France over 100 years ago in an attempt to breed them with silkworms to create stronger fabric."

Hudson Valley residents would find these caterpillars not only coming down from trees but also on their cars, decks and elsewhere.

These caterpillars were not only making themselves comfortable but in time, they decided they wanted to leave us some droppings too. In addition to Hudson Valley residents being unhappy with these caterpillars, they went onto social media platforms to see if others were noticing their droppings too.

Not only were Hudson Valley residents noticing the dropping but The New York Post shared their opinions too.

The New York Post shared information about gypsy moth caterpillars and how they "rain poop down" within New York state.

SEE MORE: Dont Squish This Invasive Pest In New York State

Would The Return Of These Caterpillars In Hudson Valley Make Us Do This?

At this point, Hudson Valley residents were questioning themselves of what they could do to get rid of these pests.

The University of Connecticut, Home and Garden Education Center suggested homeowners sweep areas with the droppings and to spray with a hose too.

Some residents wrapped their trees with burlap bands while others used sprays that would help reduce these caterpillars while also protecting the environment. By fall, we were happy to notice that some of these caterpillars weren't around anymore.

However, in May 2025, we noticed the return of spongy moth caterpillars in the Hudson Valley. Residents flocked to social media platforms to share the news with others who also mentioned that they noticed the same thing.

Within a few days, I wrote an open letter to this invasive, Hudson Valley pest.

I was sitting at a table outdoors at a local business when I saw small, black caterpillars on the table. As I was eating my food, I then noticed that there was one on my plate. At this point, I didn’t want to hurt the bugs but I did flick them away.  I knew exactly who they were, spongy moth caterpillars!

Thinking back to last year, I remember that Hudson Valley residents were wrapping their trees with certain tape to prevent the spongy moths in the area.

Yes, This Is Why You Might See Tape On Hudson Valley Trees This Summer

Driving around the Hudson Valley, I noticed that homeowners had different color tape on their trees. Some of the tapes that were on the trees were silver, while others were white and even, blue.

I had an a-ha moment in that second, I realized that the tape was something that a lot of Hudson Valley residents used last year because of the caterpillars.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shared helpful, professional advice about the spongy moth caterpillars.

They included that we can place barrier bands around the trunk of Hudson Valley trees in order to “catch caterpillars when they hatch and crawl”.

Hudson Valley residents can also replace the bands from before or simply put together a burlap trap. I’ve noticed duct tape around trees in the Hudson Valley area.

Have you noticed the spongy moth caterpillars this year in the Hudson Valley? What is your solution for them? Fill us in below.