Invasive European spongy moths detected in Sandpoint for second year in a row

SANDPOINT, Idaho -- The Idaho Department of Lands says the invasive spongy moth has been detected in Sandpoint for the second year in a row.

Last year, one male European spongy moth was detected in Sandpoint near Oak Street and Division Avenue. So far this year, three more moths have been captured in two delimitation traps.

Spongy moth caterpillars feed on a broad range of trees. The European spongy moth causes millions of dollars of damage in the eastern United States during outbreaks.

IDL says when the three European spongy moths were captured, the relevant authorities were notified immediately. The response planning was delayed, however, due to the federal government shutdown.

“Over the years, more than 20 similar initial spongy moth detections have occurred throughout many Idaho co