The Return of Gypsy Moths Worries Cape Insect Experts

(AP Photo/Mel Evans, File)

BARNSTABLE – The hungry gypsy moth caterpillars beginning to grow on trees across Cape Cod could become a major problem for the area’s shade trees.

The past two summers’ drought conditions, combined with larger hatchings of moth caterpillars, have taken a huge toll on the trees.

The relief usually comes in the form of a fungus that was introduced to the landscape years ago. That fungus needs wet weather, though, and was likewise absent last year.

That fungus’s spores germinate in the warm weather and end up attaching themselves to gypsy caterpillars. They then eat their way through the creature’s exoskeleton.

Barnstable County entomologist Larry Dapsis said that this year’s comparatively wet season should help, but that homeowners’ best bet for healthy trees is to hire an arborist.

“Late-stage gypsy moth caterpillars can consume 12 square inches of foliage each and every day,” Dapsis said.

He said the pressure from the gypsy moths was so high last year that the critters even munched on pitch pine trees. They usually feed on oaks and other deciduous trees like white pine.

Oaks are, however, the target facing the most stress from the combined effects of drought and moth caterpillars, according to Dapsis.

Trees aren’t the only victim of the moths. Dapsis said that people who are extra-sensitive to dermatitis can contract it after contact with the flying pests, resulting in an uncomfortable rash.

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