how can i get over my fear of tent caterpillars? as a kid, one time, i accidentally broke one of their nests open and seeing that many caterpillars at once freaked me the hell out
It is definitely a little bit freaky to see many bugs gathered together, especially in one wiggly mass like tent caterpillars. You'll be happy to learn they are not harmful! General bug fear advice is found here. Start with educating yourself about them, but avoid pest control websites, as they often try to make them seem as scary as possible. Then you can move on to pics and videos.
Also have you seen the adults? They are VERY fuzzy and cute. Here's an eastern tent caterpillar moth
Precious :') Photo by wattmom












