Gypsy moth larvae can be a serious nuisance in urban and recreation areas. Identifying the Insect. Older larvae are brownish-gray, with tufts of hair on each segment and a double row of five pairs of blue spots, followed by six pairs of red spots, on the back. Adult male moths are dark brown, with wavy dark bands across the forewings. Identifying the Injury.
Young larvae chew small holes in leaves.
Older larvae feed on leaf edges, consuming entire leaves except for the larger veins and the midribs. The entire tree is often defoliated. Pupation occurs in sheltered places and lasts 2 weeks. Adults emerge in July and August. Adult females and egg masses Photo by John H. Ghent Pupa Photo by John H. Ghent Control.