Traps To Be Placed in 47 Counties For Spongy Moth

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will set over 10,000 traps for spongy moth in 47 counties from mid-May through early July. The counties include Crawford, Sauk, Richland, Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, and Green Counties. DATCP asks that property owners allow trapping staff to place traps on their land and to not disturb the traps once in place. Traps are small green boxes tied to tree branches. The trap contains the scent of female spongy moths and is undetectable to humans and other insects. These boxes are used to attract and catch adult male spongy moths. Trappers will monitor traps until August, when the male moths stop flying and the traps are removed. DATCP trappers are easily identifiable as they wear fluorescent vests and carry identification cards.