Some gypsy moth traps were put out by one of our members because she noticed that there were some moths in her area. The traps were full in short time. We encourage everyone to look into getting these traps.
**Watch for egg masses on your trees, they may contain hundreds of eggs.
Egg mass of Gypsy Moth
Gypsy moth
Information about Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar dispar), a forest defoliating insect found in Ontario.
Overview
invasive – native to Europe: this European defoliator feeds on a wide variety of trees
The first detection of gypsy moth in Ontario occurred in 1969; however, widespread defoliation did not occur until 1981.
Established populations exist south of a line from Sault Ste. Marie east to North Bay and Mattawa; a separate infestation exists in New Liskeard.
The Ontario distribution coincides with the range of the insect’s preferred hosts of oak; however, no known populations of gypsy moth exist in northern parts of the range of bur oak north on New Liskeard in the northeast region, and west of Thunder Bay to Lake of the Woods in the northwest region.
“Invasive” refers to a species that has moved outside of its native habitat and threatens the new environment, economy or society by disrupting local ecosystems.
Impacts of Gypsy Moth
- Defoliates and kills large amounts of trees, affecting the many benefits provided by trees.
- Economic impacts affect all forest users.
- Caterpillars may chew small holes in leaves or completely strip a canopy, depending on age and population levels
Lifecycle
Gypsy Moth Trap Kit
