The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) recently visited New Franklin to inspect for gypsy moths. An infestation has been confirmed. Dave Adkins, the gypsy moth program manager with the ODA, offers this helpful information.

What does a gypsy moth look like?
The gypsy moth caterpillar is hairy with red dots on its back. Once the caterpillar transforms into a moth, the female moth does not fly. It is 1” to 1.5” long and is white with dots on the outer exterior. The male gypsy moth has large antenna and is tannish in color.

What’s the first thing someone should do if they have gypsy moths?
Go to our Web site, www.ohioagriculture.gov/gypsymoth. There are quick links and a lot of information.

And then?
Check trees on an annual basis. Look for signs of defoliation. Identify what is feeding on the plants. Don’t wait for extreme signs of distress. The caterpillers favor oak trees, but feed on leaves.

What is happening now with the gypsy moths?
There are four stages in the gypsy moth life cycle - egg, larvae, pupa and moth. The caterpillars are transforming into moths. The pupae are reddish brown and you’ll see them hanging in limbs or nooks of trees.

What action is being taken?
There are pheramone traps that disrupt the mating cycle. There are spraying programs, but those should be done by entire neighborhoods.

If a community, such as New Franklin has a serious problem, what could be done? 
They can apply for grants that are matched 50 percent. The suppression program must meet criteria. The forms are available from our Web site. The gypsy moth hotline is 800-282-1955.