In 1868, Gypsy Moths were imported from Europe to Boston by a French scientist. He wanted to establish a massive silk industry in that continent. Therefore, he crossed gypsy moths with silkworms. Nonetheless, some of these moths escaped and spread to eastern Canada and the United States.

Gypsy moths are destructive worms that reside and feed on green trees. However, they usually like to grow on leafy trees and some evergreen plants. They have a life span of one year. Adult insects lay eggs near winter and die. Later on, these eggs grow into larvae and caterpillars until summer. May to August are their active months.

What Are The Summer Strategies Against Gypsy Moths?

As you know, gypsy moths are seen everywhere during summer. You can not fully alleviate them. But the collective efforts will surely make a difference.

Scrap Off the Egg Masses

The best option to get rid of egg clusters is to scrap them off. You can take it with the help of a sharp knife or any other object. Later on, dispose of them.

The health authorities have advised residents to soak the gypsy moth eggs in soapy water for 48-72 hours. It will kill most of them.

Catch Gypsy Caterpillars

If you are late for egg masses, you can still help by catching caterpillars. Firstly, wrap up the high tree trunks with long burlap. When caterpillars reach on burlap, they will stick there. Later on, collect them and dispose of them properly.

Try Bacillus thuringiensis kurtis

BTk or Bacillus thuringiensis is the best way to get rid of gypsy moths. Once they feed on it, their digestive tract stops working. They will leave feeding and die as soon as five days.

Ask Help From Professional Pest Control Companies

If you cannot do it, never leave the gypsy moth infestation freely. They spread so fast. In this case, hire professional pest control services before too late.

What To Do About Gypsy Moths in Winter?

Winter is the inactive season for Gypsy moths. However, they are active indirectly. Adult insects reproduce and lay eggs before winter. Eggs continue to evolve and become caterpillars until June.

Here are some tips to limit their growth in winter. 

Look Out For Their Eggs

Gypsy moths lay eggs in hidden places like upper tree branches, inside ceilings, under the benches, or vehicles. Search these egg clusters in the places mentioned earlier and get rid of them early.

Limit Their Spread

Just before summer, gypsy larvae reach the top of the tree and make silk thread. They use this thread to travel along with air. Moreover, they can travel while attached to your clothes or vehicles.

Be Ready With Summer Plans To Avoid Gypsy Moths

The most vital step is to prepare to control Gypsy moths before they infest a tree. The larvae may feed on green leaves, but an infestation happens when the damage is too massive to compensate over the year.

Currently, we are providing our pest removal services in  Durham Region, Toronto, York Region and the entire GTA, including Markham, Newmarket, Nobleton, King City, Richmond Hill, Stoufville, Vaughan, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Brooklin, Bowmanville, Courtice, Port Perry, and areas nearby.

To get started, Contact Quality Affordable Pest Control and Give us a call on 647-502-3950 today to find out more about our services.