![]() Mature trees, DNR officials said, can tolerate gypsy moth defoliation with minimal problems, but those that aren't as healthy coupled with years of mass defoliation can take a toll. Male moths are dark in color and fly, while females are white and black with wavy markings and do not fly. ![]() In most cases, gypsy moth caterpillars are more of a nuisance in residential areas than in the woods.”įirst discovered in 1954 in Michigan, gypsy moth caterpillars are hairy and grow up to 2-inches long with a pattern of dark red and blue spots. “Only stressed trees suffering from problems like drought, old age or root damage are at high risk. “Gypsy moths rarely kill trees in Michigan,” said James Wieferich, DNR forest health specialist. Heavy defoliation likely will become visible within the next few weeks and persist through mid-July, the DNR said. The largest defoliation is in Washtenaw, Barry and Ionia counties, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said. The moths also are causing headaches in other areas of the Lower Peninsula. ![]() ![]() State officials have expressed concern about an influx of invasive gypsy moths in southern Michigan, saying the insects can harm native species and ecosystems.ĭNR officials said a large population growth of the moths in 2018 is spurring more caterpillars to hatch this spring. ![]()
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