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It sounds like a tent worm of some kind. But regardless of the type of caterpillar, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is effective on most caterpillars. Applying it should take care of the problem.

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Not exactly a shrub, but a climbing hydrangea might do well there, either up the telephone pole or on a trellis. Indian hawthorn might work as well. Sky pencil holly would also be an interesting choice.