What are these and how do I get rid of them?

[Kevin@]

I bought a Desert Museum tree last year for my birthday. It was beautiful... (see image)
Then I noticed that it wasn't blooming (this is yesterday). Upon closer examination I noticed worms on the branches. there was probably 5 per branch. They are odd because when they fall off the tree they have a string attached like a spider they can make it longer to lower them to the ground.
Please see the before and after picture just 24 hours ago.
If you guys can help identify it and suggest a remedy, that would be great.

 

[MaryMary]

I think if they have thread, they are caterpillars, not worms. Thread...web...google-fu !!


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My WAG is that they are Palo Verde webworms. Faculta inaequalis.

Here is information about the caterpillars, the site says the damage is negligible, and they are "nuisance or cosmetic pests" so I wouldn't worry too much:
http://bugeric.blogspot.com/2013/03/moth-monday-palo-verde-webworm.html


Here is information about Palo Verde pests and disorders.

Pests and disorders of Cercidium spp.
Invertebrates

• Foliage-feeding caterpillars
  • Palo Verde webworm

http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/paloverde.html

Then I noticed that it wasn't blooming (this is yesterday).

I thought it was too hot to bloom in July? Last year, it bloomed the second week of August.

https://www.gardening-forums.com/th...g-its-blooms-and-some-leaves.8701/#post-88069

 

[Chuck]

If you don't like them spray the tree with Bt (Bacillus thuringensis) and they will be gone.

 

[Kevin@]

Thank you for your responses. when I got home from work, they were gone. lol I guess they moved on to some other plant.
Anyway if they return I'll know what they are.
Thanks again,
k