The Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy Moth) is an invasive European moth whose caterpillars cause massive defoliation of oaks and other hardwoods in outbreak years, with a single caterpillar eating one square foot of leaves per day. Males are brown and fly; females are white and flightless. Egg masses resemble tan sponge patches on trees and objects, hence the new common name.
Best time to see a Spongy Moth
The best time to see a Spongy Moth is June–July, when about 69% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 28,446 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Spongy Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Spongy Moth sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Spongy Moth? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Spongy Moth is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.