The gypsy moth is an example of an insect that was introduced to the United States but soon backfired all around the country, including California. The  gypsy moth caterpillar (see picture to the left) is usually what is pictured when the insect is mentioned. These insects were brought to the United States in 1869 in an attempt to create a silkworm industry but has since become a major pest.

Tree damage is the major problem with the pests, especially when they are at the caterpillar stage of their life which is the gypsy moth larvae. As the caterpillars grow, they molt and their appetite increases each time they molt. A gypsy moth caterpillar may molt five or six times. Gypsy moths aren’t very picky when it comes to their food but they do prefer hardwood trees such as oak, elm and maple; other trees can be affected.

States across the country are trying to control this pest and even though there is an agressive attempt to eradicate the insect, the gypsy moth is still a major threat to the forests of California. The California Department of Food and Agriculture has taken steps to control the problem including spraying natural pesticides and even quarantining areas where the gypsy moths have been spotted.

Wondering what you can do to help? Gypsy-moth.com recommends a few tools to help protect the trees on your property.

1. Destroy any egg masses by burning them or soaking them in water
2. Use the TreeHelp Bug Band to prevent the gypsy moth caterpillars from reaching the leaves
3. Use a gypsy moth trap to capture any adult moths

Here are some videos about gypsy moths from the California Department of Food and Agriculture.