The Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy Moth) is an invasive European moth whose caterpillars cause massive defoliation of oaks and other hardwoods in outbreak years, with a single caterpillar eating one square foot of leaves per day. Males are brown and fly; females are white and flightless. Egg masses resemble tan sponge patches on trees and objects, hence the new common name.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, parks, and suburban trees across the Northeast
Diet
Larvae: oak, aspen, birch, and over 500 tree species. Adults: do not feed
How common
Common
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