Lanark County is investigating this season’s infestation of the gypsy moth and providing information to the public.

Gypsy moths are an invasive and destructive species that pose great risk to deciduous trees in Ontario. This year infestations are on the rise; factors may include extended heat, climate change and their life cycle trajectory.

Gypsy moths have four life stages, with the moth stage currently beginning in Lanark County. You can spot the moths and do your part before they lay eggs. The males are buff coloured and survive about one week. The females are white and do not fly. To reduce their spread, you can buy moth traps, use burlap banding, or BTK pesticides permitted from the hardware store. For additional instructions on how to eradicate them, see the public education link below.

On larger scale, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry will be conducting a Gypsy Moth Aerial Survey this Fall. It will calculate the infestation levels and 2020 tree defoliation. If infestation levels are found to be above threshold, other methods of eradication will be considered.

Forests are an important resource to clean air for climate change mitigation throughout Lanark County. Everyone can make an impact in helping to reduce this invasive species invasion. Identify and control gypsy moths in your property to work towards protecting our natural environment.