During a long-term outbreak, repeated defoliation can result in host death. Extensive defoliation of forested areas is unsightly and costly. Heavily damaged park and forest lands are not attractive to tourism. Industry that depends on aspen for raw material and firewood also may find supplies reduced. Gypsy moth defoliation can alter wildlife habitats.
Defoliation reduces both cover and forage for many wildlife species.
Areas declared by regulatory agencies to be infested with gypsy moth are subject to quarantines that could be both costly and inconvenient. Controls Detection is the first step to control the gypsy moth. This can be done by visual inspection, but by far the most effective means has been the use of pheromone traps. These traps mimic the scent of female moths and attract male moths. Once an infestation is detected, use traps the next year at higher densities to pinpoint the area needing treatment.