The cicada invasion has gotten a lot of press, but for Blue Water Area residents, it’s the gypsy moth caterpillars that are causing a lot of trouble. The little caterpillars are everywhere in some neighborhoods and there is concern over the damage they might cause to trees.
Gypsy moths are not native to the area, but they have been around since the late 1800s, so they are nothing new. This year does seem to have higher numbers than usual, as have the past two years, according to the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Not only are the little caterpillars and their webs annoying, but they can also cause serious damage to trees with their voracious appetites for leaves. The best way to get rid of them is to take down their nests in the fall.
Adding to their vexing nature, gypsy moth caterpillar hairs contain histamine, which can cause a rash if touched, or even if blowing in the wind and making contact with skin, according to the National Poison Control Center.
There are insecticides that can be applied to trees to kill the caterpillars. A chemical-free way to trap the invasive pests is to put bands of burlap around tree trunks and collect and kill the caterpillars that show up on it each day.
More information is at:
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
