Western Tussock Moth Outbreak Hits Bay Area Peninsula — What Homeowners Need to Know

If you live in Menlo Park or the surrounding Peninsula, you’ve probably noticed the sudden surge of caterpillars around your home.
This season’s Western Tussock Moth outbreak has led to thousands of caterpillars dropping from oak trees onto roofs, gutters, siding, and outdoor spaces. While this is a natural cycle, the mess they leave behind can quickly become a serious problem for homeowners.

What’s happening right nowCaterpillars are feeding heavily on oak trees and spreading across residential properties in large numbers.
Common issues we’re seeing:
• Roofs covered in droppings and silk
• Gutters clogged with debris
• Staining on siding and exterior surfaces
• Patios, decks, and walkways becoming unusable

Why this mattersThe caterpillars themselves aren’t harmful — but the buildup they create can lead to real damage if ignored.
• Moisture retention on roofs leading to moss and algae growth
• Permanent staining on siding and painted surfaces
• Blocked gutters causing drainage issues
• Increased maintenance and cleanup costs

Why act nowCaterpillar activity peaks during March and April, and buildup increases quickly.
The longer it sits:
• The harder it is to remove
• The more staining sets in
• The greater the risk of long-term issues
Early cleanup makes a significant difference.

Our solutionAt Miller’s Pressure Washing, we provide a specialized caterpillar mitigation service designed for this exact issue.
Our process focuses on safe, effective cleanup without the use of harsh chemicals.
We handle:
• Roof and gutter cleaning
• Caterpillar and nest removal
• Exterior washing (siding, patios, walkways)
We focus on mitigation, not elimination — reducing the impact while staying fully compliant with local regulations.

Serving the PeninsulaWe’re currently helping homeowners in:
Menlo Park
Atherton
Palo Alto
Los Altos
Woodside
Portola Valley

Get a free quoteIf your home is being affected, we’re happy to take a look and recommend the best approach.
Call or text: 650-248-0727
Visit: millerspressurewashing.com/caterpillar-mitigation.html

Caterpillar outbreaks are temporary — but the damage they leave behind doesn’t have to be.

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For immediate service, call (650) 248-0727