Forest tent caterpillars are once again chewing their way through the leaves on the trees in Winnipeg.
Large outbreaks of these insects, which are the larval stage of a small moth, tend to cycle every 10 to 15 years. According to entomologist Dr. Kateryn Rochon from the University of Manitoba, this year is one of their “boom” years, and it could last for the next couple of summers.
High populations of the caterpillars were seen in pockets of the city last year, and this year, they seem to be spreading. Dr. Rochon noted that next year, the numbers are expected to be far lower again.
The city has chosen to use an organic BTK Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk) spray in order to combat the pests. Control teams will be applying a spray that contains this agent on areas of Winnipeg that it feels could be at risk of defoliation. Those who wish to be notified in advance of the operation can sign up to do so, and they can also make an application to not have the spray applied on their property. In instances like this, Signs can be produced that can be placed in the areas being treated so that the public is aware they are going on.
Further information about the City of Winnipeg’s forest tent caterpillar control measures can be found on its website.Get a Free Quote for Signs
