Gypsy Moths Have Been Renamed Spongy Moths by the Entomological Society of America as of March 2022
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Services Provided by Eric’s Tree Service, LLC
If you’re noticing your trees are barren and your property is inundated with caterpillars, it’s time to Just Call Eric! Gypsy moths, particularly, their larval caterpillar, pose a significant threat to the health of Connecticut’s trees. If left unchecked, gypsy moth infestations can quickly defoliate trees, leaving them unable to absorb the nutrients they need to survive. Without proper treatment by a CT licensed arborist, repeated gypsy moth infestations can cause tree death, leaving the tree a liability to your home and property.
Gypsy Moth Caterpillar and Gypsy Moth
Are You Suffering From Gypsy Moths?
Meet the gypsy moth, one of the top 100 most destructive, invasive species worldwide. The gypsy moth first originated in the United States just south of Medford, Massachusetts, where they were accidentally released in 1869. Their spread was slow at first; however, faster, more prevalent transportation has allowed them to reach as far as Michigan. While their spread geographically is naturally slow, their ability to populate locally is much faster. As a result, this has led to a great deal of devastation in the tree population, especially in Connecticut. Trees in towns such as Columbia, Chaplin, Marlborough, and East Hampton have been particularly devastated.
Why are Gypsy Moths Such a Concern for Connecticut?
Gypsy moths are an incredibly versatile pest, capable of feeding on the leaves of over 500 species of trees, shrubs and plants, many of which can be found in Connecticut. During warmer winter seasons, the eggs of the gypsy moth are able to survive, allowing for a head start on their hatching season. Multiple dry seasons in Connecticut have also led to a decline of a certain fungus that keeps the spread of the gypsy moth in check, thereby also contributing to an increase in gypsy moth population. This combination makes Connecticut the perfect breeding ground for gypsy moth infestation.
What Does a Gypsy Moth Do?
While the adult gypsy moth itself does not cause extensive tree damage, it is their larval state, the caterpillar, that is most threatening to trees. The moths simply continue the cycle, laying thousands of eggs up and down Connecticut’s trees. These thousands of eggs hatch into the gypsy moth caterpillar that then feeds on the leaves of the trees on a massive scale, leaving trees barren.
This process starts to choke the tree of the nutrients it needs, leading to stress and eventually the death of the tree after several seasons of this cycle. Trees that provide us shade, beautiful scenery, and property value are being lost due to the gypsy moth infestation. Do not put off spraying to eradicate this menace! Once your property is overriden with caterpillars, saving your trees may be too late, and you may be left to deal with the liability of large trees that could endanger your home.
Trees At Risk
While the gypsy moth feeds on many species, with all the most common trees in Connecticut being among them, their favorite choice is the oak tree. Oak trees bud at almost the exact same time as hatching season begins, when the younger larvae need tender, new leaves to feed upon. The massive size of oak trees and the common occurrence of them throughout the state create the perfect feeding ground for the young gypsy moth larvae.
Signs Of Infestation
It’s hard to miss signs of a gypsy moth infestation! There will be excessive numbers of caterpillars inundating your property. You will find them in your yard, covering your trees, on the side of your home, and potentially invading what outdoor space you may have. Additionally, you’ll start to notice your trees’ canopy looking extremely sparse. It will not take them long to leave your trees very short on leaves.
What Should I Do?
Reserve your spot for gypsy moth spraying before it’s too late! Eric’s Tree Service has a state-of-the-art professional sprayer to get the job done effectively and efficiently.