Be on Alert for Gypsy Moth in Williams County
Gypsy moth larvae (caterpillars) in the 4th-6th instars have 5 pairs of blue spots followed by 6 pairs of red spots. Photo credit: Amy Stone, OSU Extension Lucas County.
Our office has received multiple reports of gypsy moth in the past two weeks from Williams County landowners. This invasive pest is currently in the larval (caterpillar) stage of its life cycle, and can be seen feeding on the leaves of various tree and shrub species, especially oak trees. At this point in the year, gypsy moth is difficult to manage and efforts should shift to scouting for pupa, or the next stage of the life cycle that transforms larvae into moths. Pupae are brownish and .75-2.5 inches long and can be crushed or brushed into a container of soapy water to prevent them from making it to the adult stage. You can see images of gypsy moth pupae provided by the Ohio Department of Agriculture by clicking here.
If you observe gypsy moth, please report it to the OSU Extension Williams County Office at 419-636-5608 in order to monitor populations for future treatment efforts administered by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
You can learn more about gypsy moth in the resources below:
Stone, A. Gypsy Moth Damage Becoming Evident. 2021 June 17. Buckeye Yard & Garden onLine
Stone, A. Gypsy Moth Update, Part 2. 2021 June 25. Buckeye Yard & Garden onLine
