How To Check For Gypsy Moths

01 Feb How To Check For Gypsy Moths

Gypsy moths are an invasive and destructive pest that often come back year after year. Their egg masses are typically found anytime between July and April and eventually hatch into caterpillars that are covered with hair and can be characterized by five pairs of blue dots and 6 pairs of red dots running down their backs. These caterpillars eventually transition into the pupae stage in which they metamorphose into winged gypsy moths, and the cycle repeats! Gypsy moth caterpillars work hard at defoliating trees, which is why it’s important to check for gypsy moths throughout their larvae months!

They have an extremely large appetite for more than 300 species of trees and shrubs, making them a danger to forests. Their defoliation of trees, lead to trees dying due to their vulnerability to diseases and other pests.

If you have trees on your lawn or garden, they are at risk of being damaged by gypsy moths every year. But how does one check if they have them around their home? We’ve listed the places you need to check and the signs you need to look out for in order to find out if you have a gypsy moth infestation around your home. Keep on reading!

What You Need To Look Out For

Check out the photos below for how Gypsy Moths look at each stage of life. If you see gypsy moth egg masses, caterpillars or moths around your home, you can confirm that you have an infestation on your property.

Gypsy Moth Egg Masses (Found July – April)

Gypsy Moth Larvae/Caterpillars (Found April – June)

Gypsy Moth Pupae (Found June – July)

Gypsy Moths (Found July – August)

Check The Trees Around Your Home

Gypsy moths hibernate in egg masses that are covered with tan or buff-coloured hairs, and may be found on tree trunks or bark. Be sure to carefully inspect these areas to see if you have any egg masses on the trees around your home.

Check Any Outdoor Objects Around Your Home

Another area where gypsy moths tend to hangout is on the sides of buildings and under outdoor furniture. Egg masses can pop up on these areas and objects, so be sure to take lots of time to carefully check these areas.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND GYPSY MOTHS?

If you happen to find gypsy moth egg masses on your property, not to worry as we have you covered! Check out our blog on how to safely remove gypsy moth egg masses here.

If you’re experiencing gypsy moth caterpillars around your lawn and garden, there are safe and effective solutions for eliminating them. The Environmental Factor has been pioneering natural and safe green solutions for protecting the home, lawn, garden and agricultural industry since 1991. Browse our wide selection of home, garden and lawn products today! Click here to learn more!