Washington Forest Health Issues in 2003

Gypsy Moth

Gypsy moth is a non-native defoliator of many broadleaf trees and shrubs. The Asian variety could also significantly damage conifers.

Gypsy moth is not established in Washington. Each year theWashington State Department of Agriculture deploys pheromone traps to detect new introductions. Eradication efforts follow if populations appear to be breeding.

The European gypsy moth has become esablished in the eastern US where it continues to spread and cause extensive damage. The Asian gypsy moth, an even greater threat, has yet to become established in North America.

Fifty-nine moths were trapped statewide in 2003. This number is higher than the 17 moths trapped last year, but still well below the average of 77 moths caught annually over the previous ten years. All catches were in western Washington.