Problems caused by this pest
These pests are not known to occur in North America, although there have been incursions and populations have been eradicated.
The flighted spongy moth complex (Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, Lymantria umbrosa, Lymantria postalba and Lymantria albescens) are invasive pests. They pose a significant threat to Canada's forests, biodiversity and economy. These moths can feed on a wide range of economically important hosts of agriculture, forestry, and horticulture, as well as hosts of environmental importance.
Marine vessels and cargo – including containers and used vehicles – can carry the egg masses of these moths to Canada from areas regulated for FSMC (China, Japan, South Korea and far east Russia). In the right conditions, caterpillars hatch from these egg masses, and they can go great distances with the wind to find food.
What you can do
Know what the egg mass and the moth look like
The female is large in size and capable of sustained flight. They range from white to light grey in colour, with black markings on the wings. They are attracted to light and can lay their egg masses on any surface, including marine vessels, cargo containers, vehicles and any other items stored outdoors in countries where FSMC is known to occur.
FSMC egg masses are 2 to 4 centimetres long. They are gold to dark brown in colour, with fine hairs covering the eggs. They are often found in sheltered areas (for example, out of the rain and direct sun).
Inspect and report
Marine vessels are considered the highest risk pathway for FSMC to be introduced to Canada. All marine vessels entering Canada can be inspected, at any time of year to verify that they are free from FSMC. If an inspection finds FSMC in any of its life stages, vessels may not be allowed to stay in Canadian waters.
Egg masses should be removed by scraping them off and securing them in a sealed container. Do not paint over egg masses: painting over the egg masses will not kill them.
If you find egg masses resembling the images on this webpage on goods or conveyances that have been in areas regulated for FSMC, please contact the nearest CFIA office.
What to look for
Stop the spread of invasive species
An invasive species can be any plant, animal, aquatic life or micro-organism that spreads when introduced outside of its natural distribution. Invasive species can cause serious and often irreversible damage to Canada's ecosystems, economy and society.
The CFIA is the Government of Canada's science-based regulator for animal health, plant protection and food safety. The CFIA plays an important role in protecting Canada's plant resource base from pests and diseases.