Insects and Spiders - native

Tent Caterpillars (Malacosoma species) on Aug 29, 2009

Originally reported as Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

I see a large tent-like cocoon in the upper branches of a tree on my block. Being from New England I quickly associated it with the Gypsy Moth infestations I have seen there. As yet I have not managed to catch a live specimen for identification. But I believe I have seen another nest just north of Mississippi and Fremont.

Commentary

What is the best way to go about properly identifying the species as a gypsy moth? Is there anything that can be done to control the spread of these moths?

Reporter
Aug. 29, 2009, 1:32 a.m.

Daniel, thank you for sending me an actual picture of these cocoons - it allowed for confirmation that these are indeed tent caterpillars. For more information about what the Oregon Department of Agriculture is doing regarding gypsy moths, please see this website: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/IPPM/gm_alert.shtml. Thank you so much for your report - we rely on the eyes of people like you to see potential new invasives.

Lisa DeBruyckere
Aug. 30, 2009, 1:09 p.m.

Location

Between SE 39th and 40th on Ivon St. Top west facing side of tree situated on the south side of the road.

Expert Reviewer

Ms. Lisa DeBruyckere
Oregon Invasive Species Council Coordinator

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