Inchworms

Inchworm caterpillars, also known as loopers, spanworms, or measuring worms, are the larvae of geometer moths belonging to the family Geometridae. They derive their common name from their distinctive mode of locomotion, which resembles measuring inches as they move. This movement pattern is due to their lack of prolegs in the middle of their bodies, causing them to contract and stretch in a looping motion.

Geometer moths, the adult form of inchworm caterpillars, exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns, often mimicking leaves, bark, or other natural elements, which provides them with excellent camouflage from predators.

The unique movement of inchworm caterpillars has inspired various myths and sayings. In some cultures, seeing an inchworm is considered a sign of good luck, indicating progress and forward movement in one’s life. There’s a common saying, “Inchworm, inchworm, measuring the marigolds,” popularized by a song in the 1960s,

which speaks to the meticulous and steady nature of progress, much like the slow and steady movement of an inchworm. These creatures symbolize perseverance and the idea that even small, incremental steps can lead to significant achievements.

The inchworm’s distinctive locomotion has also inspired toys and games over the years. One notable example is the “Inchworm” ride-on toy produced by Hasbro in the 1970s. This brightly colored, wheeled toy allowed children to mimic the inchworm’s movement by bouncing up and down on its hinged body,

propelling it forward in a fun and engaging manner. It was part of a broader trend during that era, where many toys were designed to promote active play and physical exercise. Additionally, vintage board games and puzzles often featured insects and caterpillars as educational themes, helping children learn about nature and science through play. Geometer moths play a significant role in their ecosystems. As caterpillars, they help control the growth of various plants by feeding on their leaves,

which can prevent any single species from becoming too dominant. Adult geometer moths serve as pollinators and as a food source for birds, bats, and other predators. Their ability to blend into their surroundings as both caterpillars and adults highlights the incredible adaptations insects have evolved to survive in diverse environments.

The best type of prevention of an inchworm infestation is making sure your lawn or garden is hospital to the inchworm’s natural predators. Ground beetles, birds, Trichogramma wasps, yellow jackets, and paper wasps all prey upon the inchworm. So feeding songbirds, and installing birdhouses is a great way to get ahead of the problem. However, if the infestation is large enough to present significant damage, you may opt to hire a professional to take care of the problem.

A professional extermination company may use any number of treatment options. Horticultural oils can be applied to trees, and Bacillus thuringiensis for vegetable gardens; oils will smother the worms, while Bacillus thuringiensis will cause the body of the worms to rot, while being harmless to humans. These methods may not work once the inchworm is larger than 1/2 inch, however, and inthat case, chemical insecticides may be needed to control the infestation.