Getting rid of Gypsy Moths
This post will tell you everything you need to know about getting rid of gypsy moths, this non-native insect that can cause huge destruction to trees in our area.
Affected Trees: Broadleaf trees, including oaks, maples, poplars and birches
Gypsy Moth Ontario
Gypsy moths, otherwise known as spongy moths (Lymantria dispar), pose a significant threat to trees in Ontario, impacting a broad range of tree species. The gypsy moth is a non-native insect that defoliates trees. Outbreaks of spongy/gypsy moths tend to be cyclical, occurring every five to ten years. The last major outbreak in Ontario was a multi year outbreak beginning in 2018 and continuing until 2021. According to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority the population has now declined, with no major outbreaks of Gypsy Moth reported since.
Getting rid of Gypsy Moths – where are they and why do we need to do it?
There is no room for complacency when it comes to the Gypsy or Spongy moth. If gypsy moths take up residence in your trees, they will cause a lot of damage and, if left undisturbed, could eventually kill them.
Gypsy moths are found throughout southern Canada. There are populations in southern Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and British Columbia. Whilst there has not been a major outbreak in Toronto since 2021, scientists predict that climate change will increase the frequency and intensity of cyclical outbreaks.
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Potential distribution of the gypsy moth in Canada based on its probability of establishment as a function of climate.
What trees do gypsy moths eat?
Spongy or gypsy moth larvae can feed on more than 300 species of trees and woody shrubs. However, they prefer deciduous hardwoods. The species of trees most susceptible to Spongy or Gypsy moth infestations in our area are oaks. They also like maples, birches, poplars, and other hardwood trees.
As the larvae grow, they will feed and live on an increased range of preferred host trees and can even include conifers such as white pine or spruces. Conifers fare particularly badly from a gypsy moth infestation and may not survive one year’s infestation. Some species of trees, such as red maple, are not suitable hosts for spongy or gypsy moths and survive an outbreak without defoliation.
