Asian gypsy moth

The Asian gypsy moth is similar to but distinct from the more familiar European gypsy moth. Both varieties attack the trees of hardwood forests, as well as conifers, causing severe economic damage.  The major difference between the two varieties is that, while the female European gypsy moth is relatively flightless, the female Asian gypsy moth is an active flyer, capable of traveling up to 25 miles. This capability allows it to transport its eggs a considerable distance. The female lays its eggs during August and September in the Russian Far East and in Northern Japan. In Central and Southern Japan, it lays eggs in June and July. Ships calling in northeastern Asian ports during the egg-laying period are susceptible to having egg masses deposited on the hull, superstructure, or cargo. Ships calling in either the United States or Canada after having been in a northeastern Asian port during the egg-laying period are subject to inspection by government officials (in the US, primarily personnel from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service – APHIS). Ships found to have Asian gypsy moth egg masses or larvae are subject to treatment to eradicate the pests. If eradication is impracticable or if the ship is considered high-risk, the ship may be ordered out of port (or not even allowed to enter) until it passes inspection. Ships calling at northeastern Asian ports during the egg-laying period should obtain inspections and certifications from local authorities prior to departure. Further, the crews should conduct their own inspections of the hull, superstructure, and cargo after getting under way. Any egg masses discovered should be destroyed immediately. Such actions will greatly reduce difficulties when arriving in a US or Canadian port, as well as reducing the risk these pests pose to North American forests.