One of the major pests many people have faced this season is the Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth). These caterpillars are one of the most invasive pests that cause major damage to trees, their foliage and peoples’ properties. Around every decade the population of Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth). increases exponentially. Here at SOS Wildlife Control we understand the frustration that comes along with an infestation and we have made a list of recommendations to help you manage and get rid of these pests!
- Tree Barrier Bands
This is one of the most common methods that people use to protect their trees and prevent infestations from becoming worse. There are different types of barrier bands such as sticky bands and bands made of burlap. These bands are placed around the tree at about chest height. The sticky band works by trapping the caterpillars as they climb up your tree. These caterpillars become stuck making it difficult for them to gain access to your tree. The burlap method is a similar idea, where caterpillars will become entrapped within the burlap. As caterpillars become trapped you can check your barrier bands, remove the caterpillars and place new bands. If these invasive caterpillars do not have access to what they are looking for, such as trees, they are more likely to leave your property.
- Discard Egg Masses
Egg masses indicate that there has been an invasion of these caterpillars on your property. In order to prevent an infestation the following year and get rid of these pesky caterpillars, it is important to destroy egg masses. In order to identify the egg masses, look for a tan colour sac, often in the shape of a teardrop. They also appear to be fuzzy or hairy. When you spot an egg mass, make sure you dispose of it properly. Scrape the egg mass off of the surface you found it, such as a tree or lawn furniture and place it into soapy water. Another method is to burn or bury the egg mass. It is important to destroy the egg masses in order to get rid of these pests the following year.
- Clean up Your Yard
This species of caterpillars and moths prefer spaces with shade and protection. Female moths will often lay their egg masses in sheltered and shaded areas such as piles of firewood, lawn furniture, sheds, etc. If you have a busy yard filled with many items, this is an invitation for female moths to lay their egg masses. At SOS Wildlife Control we have seen firsthand that cluttered and busy yards attract pests to your property. Keep your yard clean to prevent them from laying their eggs and getting rid of the infestation in the long run.
- Attract Birds to your Property
Setting up items that attract birds to your property may help in getting rid of these caterpillars as some birds prey on them. Although not all types of birds are attracted to Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth), a few types of birds will hunt them which include blue jays, orioles, black capped chickadees, rufous-side towhees as well as yellow and black billed cuckoos. By adding items that attract birds to your property you could attract birds that prey on these pests, which could help in getting rid of them and preventing an infestation. Some things you can add to your property to invite birds include bird houses, bird feeders and fountains as birds are attracted to these items!
- Try Pesticides
A type of pesticide that has been shown to be effective in getting rid of Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth) is Bacillus thuringiensis also known as BT. You can purchase this from a hardware store. To use this method, mix the BT with water and place it into a spray bottle. Spray affected areas including areas with caterpillars and egg sacs, as well as areas where these caterpillars eat, such as trees and their leaves in order for this method to work. Although this method is not toxic to pets and humans, it is recommended to use a mask, goggles and gloves in order to avoid causing yourself harm from this pesticide. This method has been shown to be effective in getting rid of Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth, however it also may kill other creatures in your garden such as the specieis of caterpillars that turn into monarch butterflies.
- Call the Professionals
Although there are methods to get rid of the pesky Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth), they may not always be simple or accomplish what you would like them to. Here at SOS Wildlife Control we understand how overwhelming an infestation can be and how difficult they can be to manage. If you are struggling with an infestation and have not been able to manage them on your own, we recommend calling the professionals at SOS Wildlife Control for support!
Our experts at SOS Wildlife Control understand the frustration and difficulty that comes along with managing pest infestations on your own. Lymantria dispar dispar (european gypsy moth) are known to destroy trees and yards, which is certainly frustrating for many property owners. If you suspect that you may have an infestation, or you are unsure of the next steps to take, it is time to call the professionals! Here at SOS Wildlife Control we can perform an assessment of your situation and provide an appropriate treatment as needed. We strive to provide timely and effective treatments that work to prevent future re-occurrences of pest infestations. Our methods are eco-friendly and safe for you, your family and your furry friends. SOS Wildlife Control is one of the leading moth exterminators in Ontario and for good reasons. Contact us today at (647) 994-9453 or 1-800-981-0330 for more information on the solution to your pest problems!