The BT sprays used for gypsy moth affect only caterpillars, and are completely harmless to all other animals, including bees and other insects, birds, pets, and humans. In regions where gypsy moth has been established for a number of years, natural controls help keep populations in check during most years. Natural enemies include insect parasites that attack egg and caterpillar stages, predators such as birds, and disease organisms. Gypsy moth is especially susceptible to a virus that is often responsible for the crash of high populations. A fungal disease of gypsy moth called Entomophaga maimaiga has recently has been introduced into Ohio and it is a promising tool for gypsy moth management.
Homeowners can help by searching for and disposing of egg masses on their property.
These caterpillars can be collected by day and destroyed before they return to the canopy to feed at night. This is also an effective technique for detecting the caterpillars in a tree before severe feeding damage becomes obvious. All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status. Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension.