The European Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar) is an introduced defoliating insect that is
considered a major pest in North America. The caterpillar, or larva stage of the insect, eats the leaves of trees making them more susceptible to disease and damage from other insects.
A growing population of gypsy moths is reaching its peak potential for damage which experts say, if left unchecked, will result in severe defoliation, decline and loss of trees across the Hamilton area. The potential loss of thousands of trees from Hamilton’s urban forest has wide ranging effects on the environment, human health and local economy.
The City of Hamilton’s Public Works Department has created this Web site to provide residents of Hamilton with information on the Gypsy Moth infestation in southern Ontario, the City of Hamilton’s plans to control Gypsy Moth and information on what property owners can do to control Gypsy Moth on their property.
Click on the links in the column to the left for detailed information on Hamilton’s Gypsy Moth Control Plan. For information on Gypsy Moth from other agencies, see the Gypsy Moth Links in the column at right.