Moth Posing Danger To Trees, Crops Turns Up In Santa Cruz

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — A moth posing a danger to Santa Cruz County forests and crops has as been found in Santa Cruz, county officials announced Friday. An Asian gypsy moth was found in a detection trap at a home in Santa Cruz.

When the moth is a caterpillar it is a threat to forests and local oaks as well as other hardwoods, evergreens, manzanita, cottonwood, willow and other trees. County officials said the moths also pose a threat to county crops such as fruit trees.

A female Asian gypsy moth can fly up to 25 miles and lay up to 1500 eggs at one time. Caterpillars can eat up to one square foot of leaves each day. To determine whether an infestation exists, county officials are working with employees of other government agencies to set more traps.

If an infestation exists, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will convene a group of experts to assess the situation and provide guidance on what should be done. County officials said experts have stopped previous infestations by using bacteria found in soil, but whether that method will be used in Santa Cruz County has not been determined.

Asian gypsy moth eggs are frequently found on ships and shipping containers coming from Asia, Russia and other regions. Eggs also travel on outdoor furniture, recreational vehicles, firewood, among other portable items.

By Bay City News

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