Gypsy moths can be destructive to trees and shrubs, so learning how to identify the problem is key.

• Gypsy moth life cycles include egg, larvae (caterpillar), pupa and adult. The caterpillar stage causes the most damage by feeding on leaves of trees and shrubs.• Gypsy moth caterpillars are all black with tufts of hair and gradually change to develop five double rows of blue spots and six double rows of red.• Adult stage gypsy moths look different, depending on gender. Males are charcoal gray with brown wavy markings; while females are cream colored with black wavy markings• Inspect vehicles, outdoor equipment, campers and firewood when traveling because the insect can live on these areas.• Place burlap or sticky bands on susceptible trees for early detection of all life stages of gypsy moths. The insect can multiply from a few hundred to thousands in one to two years.• A combination of biological, mechanical and/or chemical strategies and insecticides works best to help kill the gypsy moths.• Keep lawn and wood lots clean and free of hiding places such as trash, woodpiles, unused equipment, where gypsy moths could lay eggs.Information compiled from West Virginia University Extension Service Homeowner's Guide to Gypsy Moth Management, found on the Pennsylvania DCNR website.