OHSWEKEN — Six Nations is going to survey the territory for eggs ahead of gypsy moth season this year in an attempt to control the invasive pest.
The moth larvae, which saw a name change from “gypsy” to its scientific name lymantria dispar, feed on the foliage of over 300 tree and plant species in North America, causing defoliation.
The larvae can strip an entire white pine of its needles in one season. The moth is native to Europe.
Six Nations has been trying to control the lymantria population here with aerial spraying of organic pesticides.
This year, the Six Nations Wildlife and Stewardship office contracted Lallemand Inc./BIOFOREST to survey the territory. It will cost $15,600.
The number of eggs discovered during the survey will determine if Six Nations needs to spray the territory again this year.
The larvae are most active during May and June, after which, they develop into moths.
The larvae are a pale yellow colour, council heard. They also like to feed on oak, birch, apple and willow trees.
