Spongy Moth
The spongy moth ((formerly called Gypsy moth) is one of the most important forest pests in the Northeast. The caterpillars feed on leaves of the forest, shade, ornamental and fruit trees, and shrubs. A single defoliation can kill some evergreens, but usually, two or more defoliations are needed to kill hardwoods.
Cornell Insect Diagnostic Lab Fact sheet
Spongy Moth Management Guide for Homeowners
How to Care for Defoliated Trees
How to Properly Water Your Trees
Visit the Slow the Spread Foundation
Last updated August 8, 2023
Just the Facts:
SPONGY MOTH (formerly known as GYPSY MOTH) Lymantria Dispar dispar
Fact Sheet from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
What you can do:
If you are interested in sampling your woodlot or forest to determine the likelihood of defoliation by gypsy moths for the following growing season, sampling protocol is provided here (PDF). If you do sample your woodlot or forest, your data is valuable to us for tracking annual populations. We would appreciate if you mailed or emailed you sampling data to:
NYSDEC
Division of Lands and Forests, Bureau of Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233
Telephone: 518-402-9425
Email the Forest Health team
