Unwanted visitors to the orchard

The apple trees in the QE Orchard Garden attracted some unwanted visitors recently - Western Tent Caterpillars.  This fascinating little creatures overwinter as eggs, then hatch when the trees are coming into full leaf.  Unfortunately, they eat the leaves, and flower buds, and leave the trees looking pretty sad.  They were easily removed with gloved hands, then disposed of in the compost bins.  We will probably spray the trees in the winter with an organic oil, to kill any overwintering eggs.