By: Sarah Grishpul

The Lake Simcoe Regional Conservation Authority (LSRCA) advises residents to be on the lookout for an invasive species of moth that threatens the health of trees during the upcoming summer months.

Lymantria dispar dispar (LDD), more commonly known as the European gypsy moth, is an invasive insect species native to Europe and first discovered in Ontario in 1969.

According to the LSRCA, tree monitoring levels show that the Lake Simcoe watershed will experience an outbreak of LDD from early June to July while the insect is in its caterpillar stage.

The larvae feed on hardwood tree leaves, including oak, maple, and elm, resulting in defoliation which leads the tree to become susceptible to disease and pests.

To mitigate the threat, York Region will be managing infestations by treating high-risk street trees with TreeAzin, a biological insecticide made from Neem tree seeds, and by manually removing the eggs from lower-risk trees.

The caterpillars can be easily identified by their dark, hairy appearance as well as the row of red and blue spots along their back.

Homeowners who suspect there is an LDD infestation in a tree on their property can wrap burlap or cloth around the tree trunks to collect the caterpillars and soak them in a bucket of soapy water.

Egg sacs found on trees in late April and early May can be removed and discarded before the insect has hatched.

Gloves should always be worn while handling the caterpillars and egg sacs to prevent possible allergic reactions.

The LSRCA advises against using pesticides, as the chemicals are harmful to the environment.

LDD infestations spotted on street trees near a regional road can be reported through AccessYork@york.ca or by calling 1-877-464-9675.

Infested trees located on neighbourhood roads should be reported to the Town.

Mike Anderson
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