The Tri-State region is confronting a new ecological challenge as the box tree moth, originating from Asia, makes its unwelcome arrival. This moth, initially detected in Europe in 2007, gradually expanded its range over the following years, reaching Canada by 2018. Subsequently, infestations were reported in New York and Michigan in 2022, marking the moth’s presence in North America. In June 2023, the invasive pest was discovered in Southwest Ohio, signifying its infiltration into the Tri-State area.
In response to this threat, the Ohio Department of Agriculture has enacted a quarantine encompassing six counties in Southwest Ohio: Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren among them. This quarantine aims to curtail the movement of boxwood shrubs out of the affected region, as box tree moths pose a significant risk to these plants due to their destructive feeding habits.
The caterpillars of the box tree moth are particularly notorious for their voracious appetite, initially nibbling on parts of the leaf before progressing to devouring entire leaves, often leaving only the edges behind. These caterpillars are identifiable by their distinctive green and yellow coloration, adorned with white, yellow, and black stripes, as well as black spots.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of these invasive caterpillars promptly to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Early detection and intervention are crucial in mitigating the spread of the box tree moth and safeguarding local vegetation from its destructive effects.
By raising awareness and enlisting the public’s assistance in monitoring and reporting sightings, authorities aim to prevent further proliferation of the invasive species within the Tri-State region. Through collective efforts, communities can effectively combat the threat posed by the box tree moth and preserve the ecological integrity of their surroundings.
