×On March 2, 2022, the Entomological Society of America officially changed the common name of Lymantria dispar (previously known as the gypsy moth) to spongy moth.The spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) is an important defoliator of trees. Originally from Europe, it was introduced in the late 1800s. Spongy moth caterpillars feed on hundreds of tree species but tend to prefer oaks, especially white and chestnut oak on ridgetops.
*Current quarantines exist in Virginia, learn more about quarantines.
Virginia participates in the Spongy Moth Slow the Spread (STS) Foundation. STS is an important program that works to minimize the movement of this pest into uninfested areas. Learn about the Spongy Moth Slow-the-Spread Program.
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services operates a suppression program. Learn about the Spongy Moth Suppression Program.
Additional Resources
| Image | Title | ID | Description | Content Type | View | hf:tax:document-category | hf:tax:Media |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Gypsy Moth (Spongy Moth) Management for Homeowners on Small Properties | This factsheet details the life cycle and biology of the spongy moth. | Resource | View | forest-health | resource | |
 | Spongy Moth Control Methods – A Guide for Homeowners | FT0068 | Forestry topic information sheet describes spongy moth, the damage it causes, and how you can protect your trees using chemical and natural control methods. | Publication | View | forest-health | publication |
| Virginia Cooperative Spongy Moth Suppression Program | Publication provides information on the Spongy Moth Slow the Spread Program. | Publication | View | forest-health | publication |
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