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Gypsy Moth Fact Sheet:
Gypsy Moth Infestation Levels for Virginia Counties and Cities
Years indicated in the map above denote the historical or predicted time when a given county or city will begin to experience some level of gypsy moth infestation. For example, residents in the dark blue area will begin to see gypsy moth caterpillars and possibly some minor defoliation episodes by the year 2000. Roman numerals (I-IV) indicate infestation levels and are used to develop management and educational programs. Infestation levels are defined below.
Infestation Level I (Dark blue)
Definition. No gypsy moth males or single gypsy moth males captured in pheromone-baited traps. No other life-stages present. Three to ten years until the first sign of larvae.
Infestation Level II (Yellow)
Definition. Generally distributed gypsy moth males captured in pheromone-baited traps, no other life-stages present. One to three years until the first sign of larvae.
Infestation Level III (Green)
Definition. Generally distributed gypsy moth males captured in pheromone-baited traps, eggs, larvae, pupae, or female moths present in low numbers. One to three years until a defoliation episode.
Infestation Level IV (Red and to the north)
Definition. Eggs, larvae, pupae, and female moths present with some areas experiencing defoliation. Defoliation is possible relative to population levels.
