The spongy moth, Lymantria dispar (formerly known as the “gypsy moth”) is native to parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It was inadvertently introduced to North America in New England in 1869 and has since spread westward. Over time, the spongy moth has become one of the most important insect pests of forest and shade trees in the eastern U.S. The larva (caterpillar) is the destructive life stage that feeds on foliage which can result in defoliation. Repeated defoliation can weaken trees, resulting in greater susceptibility to disease and other insect pests. Spongy moth caterpillars can also be a… Read More »