Share
News

Moths That Can Strip Trees and Leave a Nasty Rash Are Quietly Invading the US

Share

Non-native gypsy moths were spotted in Washington state in May causing Gov. Jay Inslee to issue an emergency proclamation because of the creatures.

The threat is posed by both Asian gypsy moths and Asian-European hybrid gypsy moths, according to Inslee’s proclamation.

“This imminent danger of infestation seriously endangers the agricultural and horticultural industries of the state of Washington and seriously threatens the economic well-being and quality of life of state residents,” the proclamation read.

Inslee ordered the director of the department of agriculture “to use emergency measures as necessary … to effect the eradication of gypsy moth,” including the use of aerial insecticides.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service outlined the threat the gypsy moth poses to the country’s landscapes and natural resources.

Trending:
KJP Panics, Hangs Up in Middle of Interview When Reporter Shows He Isn't a Democratic Party Propagandist

The agency said that if the exotic pests became established in the United States, they could cause “serious, widespread damage.”

“Large [Asian gypsy moths] infestations can completely defoliate trees. This defoliation can severely weaken trees and shrubs, making them more susceptible to disease,” the information page read.

“Repeated defoliation can lead to the death of large sections of forests, orchards and landscaping.”

Each female moth lays hundreds of eggs that turn into caterpillars that feast on over 500 tree and shrub species.

Are you worried about outbreaks caused by non-native creatures?

The females can also fly long distances and could cause an infestation to quickly spread across the country.

The moths have also been seen in Oregon, Georgia, Oklahoma and South Carolina.

The hairs of young caterpillars contain histamines and cause extreme itching and rashes.

“It starts with an itch, it gets red, it swells up, and then it takes several days to get better, and that’s typically an allergic reaction,” Dr. Bruce Gordon of Cape Cod Ear, Nose and Throat in Hyannis, Massachusetts, explained to WBZ-TV.

Gorden added that while the rash may be uncomfortable, it isn’t life-threatening, and the itch can be calmed with over-the-counter medications.

Related:
DeSantis Ends 'Squatter Scam Once and for All' by Signing New Bill Into Law

If you encounter small populations of gypsy moth eggs, the Michigan State University Extension Oakland County has a detailed guide for removing them before they become a problem.

The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture recommends crushing or burning them.

“In small populations, it may be easiest to destroy egg masses that are found on buildings, trees, etc.,” Nursery Inspector Joe Collins explained. “To destroy the egg mass, either crush the eggs or place them in a bucket of kerosene or soapy water. Burning the egg mass will also kill them.”

“Simply picking the egg masses off and dropping them on the ground will not kill them. Be careful when handling the egg masses because the hairs that cover the egg masses may cause an allergic reaction.”

Truth and Accuracy

Submit a Correction →



We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.

Tags:
, , , ,
Share
Erin Coates was an editor for The Western Journal for over two years before becoming a news writer. A University of Oregon graduate, Erin has conducted research in data journalism and contributed to various publications as a writer and editor.
Erin Coates was an editor for The Western Journal for over two years before becoming a news writer. She grew up in San Diego, California, proceeding to attend the University of Oregon and graduate with honors holding a degree in journalism. During her time in Oregon, Erin was an associate editor for Ethos Magazine and a freelance writer for Eugene Magazine. She has conducted research in data journalism, which has been published in the book “Data Journalism: Past, Present and Future.” Erin is an avid runner with a heart for encouraging young girls and has served as a coach for the organization Girls on the Run. As a writer and editor, Erin strives to promote social dialogue and tell the story of those around her.
Birthplace
Tucson, Arizona
Nationality
American
Honors/Awards
Graduated with Honors
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, University of Oregon
Books Written
Contributor for Data Journalism: Past, Present and Future
Location
Prescott, Arizona
Languages Spoken
English, French
Topics of Expertise
Politics, Health, Entertainment, Faith




Conversation