Gypsy Moth
Lymantria dispar (formerly Porthetria dispar) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)
A highly destructive defoliating moth introduced to North America in 1869. Larvae are voracious feeders capable of completely defoliating trees over large areas. Adults show strong sexual dimorphism, with flightless females and smaller flying males.
Identification & Symptoms
What to Look For
Potential Damage
Lifecycle
Moths emerge and mate in July-August. Females deposit 400+ eggs in protective hair-covered masses. Eggs overwinter and hatch in early May. Larvae develop through 5-6 instars over 6-7 weeks, pupating in June-July. Pupal stage lasts 10-14 days before adult emergence.
Professional Treatment Approach
Systemic insecticide injection for individual tree protection
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) applications during early larval stages
Egg mass removal and destruction in winter
Burlap banding to trap larvae
Pheromone trapping for population monitoring
Recommended Mauget Products
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