We had an infestation two years ago where I live. The pests were into everything, in the house, into furniture, even clothing. I had a huge one and it lost at least half its leaves. They only go for Cape Lilacs, I was told, so as mine was killing everything in sight and needing pruned for the power lines every year, it went. The council sprayed that year but not again. I don't think they harm the tree, just defoliate part of it, and there are plenty round here which are fine and the caterpillars seem to be less.

They seem to be coming back this year as a friend found some last week all over the house. No, it will NOT kill the tree! I can vouch for that!! Mine got mulched, but I still can't kill the stump.

see new posting. I think it may have been Claremont.

Thanks for the info on caterpillars. Where is the Claremont posting couldn't see it on this forum or tree forum. Sheena