Gypsy Moth

The gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) does not belong in Wisconsin or anywhere in North America. It is an invasive leaf-eating insect from Europe that has established in parts of Canada, the northeastern states and the upper Midwest, including the central and eastern parts of Wisconsin. Today, the gypsy moth continues to creep westward into the backyards and forests of the state. Go to the University of Wisconsin-Extension Gypsy Moth website to learn how to identify the insect.

What is the Concern?

The gypsy moth is an unusual species. Its population goes through cycles of abundance—from typically low numbers to short-lived explosions in what is called an outbreak. During outbreaks, the hordes of gypsy moth caterpillars strip entire forests of leaves. Trees that were healthy typically can survive a single defoliation, but weak or stressed trees can be killed. Outbreaks can be localized to a single woodlot or stretch over thousands of acres. During outbreaks, the leaves of most types of trees will be eaten because the gypsy moth caterpillar is not a fussy eater. It will feed on both broad-leaved trees and evergreens. The tree species it favors such as oak, birch and aspen will be the worst defoliated. However, most trees in Wisconsin forests will be affected to some degree during outbreaks.

What If I Find Gypsy Moth?

If you find gypsy moth west of the quarantined area, report your find to DATCP by calling the toll-free gypsy moth information hotline at 1-800-642-6684 or e-mailing gypsymoth@wisconsin.gov. This information could be used by the STS Program.

If you find gypsy moth within the quarantined area, there may be no need for immediate concern. In most years, gypsy moth will be at low levels and pose no threat. If populations are increasing to damaging levels, however, you may want to take action. Go to gypsymoth.wi.gov for directions on monitoring gypsy moth using predictive surveys and options for managing the pest for yards and woodlots.

History of the Gypsy Moth

In 1869, French lithographer and amateur entomologist Etienne Leopold Trouvelot imported gypsy moths from Europe to Medford, Mass. Trouvelot hoped to breed them with silkworms to produce a hardier species. Unfortunately, a few gypsy moths escaped and had since spread westward throughout the northeastern states, portions of Canada and into the upper Midwest. It was first found in Wisconsin in 1971. Gypsy moth is usually spread unintentionally on campers, nursery stock and even patio furniture infested with egg masses.