Apple tree invasion

[Patricia]

My apple tree is completely covered with little brown "nests" of web-like material. When I touch them tens of little caterpillars scurry about. What are they, will they all hatch at once? I havent seen them before, will they come back every year. Thanks in advance for any helpp.

[dragonfly]

Hya They Are The Larva Of A Moth They Cause A Lot Of Damage They Will Burrow Into The Appels Making Them Uneatable They Will Come Back Every Year Unless You Protect Your Trees ,

[Dogghound]

what color are the caterpillars?

[Lance Morgan]

Originally Posted by Patricia

My apple tree is completely covered with little brown "nests" of web-like material. When I touch them tens of little caterpillars scurry about. What are they, will they all hatch at once? I havent seen them before, will they come back every year. Thanks in advance for any helpp.

Brown tail moth. this year has been good for them. The hairy caterpillars can cause skin problems for some people who are sensitive.
They cause little harm other than eat the leaves of your fruit tree. They do not burrow into fruit.

[Dogghound]

The pest associated with burrowing into the fruit is the apple sawfly Hoplocampa testudinea

[Patricia]

Thanks to all who replied, but I'm still not happy about sitting under that tree!!