A Gypsy Moth Invasion Is Taking Over Ontario RN & It's What Nightmares Are Made Of
The province is experiencing a boom of moths.
If you spot a swarm of bugs next time you step outside, you aren't in a nightmare. You've just stumbled across an invasion of gypsy moths.
According to The Weather Network, the invasive species are experiencing a boom year in the province.
In fact, multiple residents have taken to social media to showcase just how many of these moths have called the province home.
The little creep critters have a nasty habit of gorging themselves on Ontario trees and causing defoliation.
Some parts of High Park have *really* bad European Gypsy Moth caterpillar infestations. Trees stripped nearly bare. The caterpillar poop and bits of leaves sound like rain. #Torontopic.twitter.com/ry7uT8e5le— Vic Gedris (@Vic Gedris) 1623618002
The caterpillar's hairs can also trigger itchy allergic reactions, so don't go touching them.
When for a lovely walk around #BritanniaPark. Noticed ALL the trees we looked at infested with #gypsymoth larvae @tm_kavanagh \n\nThey devastated parts of Southern Ontario last year. #Ottcity #Ottawapic.twitter.com/z8IU81X5Aa— Kathleen O'Grady (@Kathleen O'Grady) 1622402199
Last year marked the highest outbreak of gypsy moths in Ontario's history.
The @UTSC army greeting me at my entrance. The European gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is an #invasivespecies in #Ontario. In outbreak years, it defoliates oak, birch, maple & other trees. Adding to the stresses on #Toronto #urbanforest.pic.twitter.com/qti2Rnxc2s— Marc Cadotte (@Marc Cadotte) 1623419238
Other historic booms of gypsy moths included 1985, 1991, and 2002.
David Dutkiewicz, an Entomology Technician with the Invasive Species Centre, told TWN that residents can wrap their trees in burlap and hand scrap egg masses that they find from September to April.
But, hey, at least some people are making the most of it.
*Cover photo used for illustrative purposes only.