What is BTK?
BTK, or Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki, is a naturally occurring bacterium commonly found in soil. It has been used safely in the United States as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for more than 40 years. It is non-toxic to humans, other mammals, birds, fish and most insects, including ladybugs and honeybees.
Gypsy moths feast on the foliage of trees and shrubs. Large populations are capable of stripping plants bare of leaves. The moth obtained its name because the female cannot fly, and typically lays her eggs on objects near where she is feeding, including campers, trailers, grills and backpacks. When these items are moved, the eggs ride along like a nomadic gypsy.