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How to Get Rid of Gypsy Moth Nests

1. Prune and Remove Egg Masses

Gypsy moth egg masses are small, tan, and fuzzy. They are often found on trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. To remove egg masses, you can:

- Prune the affected branches and dispose of them in a sealed bag.

- Scrape the egg masses off the surface with a putty knife or other sharp object.

- Use a damp cloth to wipe the egg masses away.

2. Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps are effective in trapping gypsy moth caterpillars. You can place sticky traps around trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. The caterpillars will get stuck on the traps and die.

3. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

Bt is a biological insecticide that is effective against gypsy moth caterpillars. It can be applied to trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. The caterpillars will eat the Bt and die.

4. Use Chemical Pesticides

Chemical pesticides can be used to kill gypsy moth caterpillars. However, chemical pesticides can also harm other insects, so they should be used only as a last resort.

5. Natural Predators

Some animals, such as birds and bats, eat gypsy moths. You can attract these natural predators to your yard by providing food and water.

6. Monitor and Respond

Gypsy moths can quickly become a problem if they are not controlled. Monitor your property for gypsy moth caterpillars and egg masses. Take action to remove them as soon as possible.

Additional Tips

- Check your trees for egg masses in the fall and winter months.

- Remove any egg masses that you find.

- Apply Bt or chemical pesticides to trees that are at risk for infestation.

- Monitor your trees for caterpillars in the spring and summer months.

- Take action to remove any caterpillars that you find.