Question
I have about 12 different orchid plants and have a problem with the cattelyas.  I have just moved and they are in a new location.  I had a new pod starding on one of them and the next day the pod was gone and the buds exposed and the following day the buds were gone.  Something has eaten them, I have another without the pod and I took it into the house for protection.  What type of animal could be eating them?  I thought it was the ants(they were a problem which was solved) but I have read that they do not eat the plants.  The other plants are orchids with spikes and to not seem to have a problem.  Thanks hope you can help.  Pat

Answer
Hello Pat,

My first thought about what might be eating your cattleya buds are snails and/or slugs.  But you said that the buds were gone, not just partially eaten which would be unusual for those pests as they usually nibble parts of the bud over several days.  To be on the safe side, spread some snail bait around your plants, being sure to put some on top of the pot in case they are hiding within it.  If you have pets or small children around, use one that the primary ingredient is iron phosphate as it is safer to use.  

Other possibilities are squirrels, rats, mice and even some pets.  I have a friend whose dog loves to nibble on the buds and even the orchids.  

Hope this helps.  Good luck.  

Jim Kawasaki
San Jose, Ca.