What is the primary method of spread for spongy moths?

The primary method of spread for spongy moths involves hitchhiking and the movement of firewood. Spongy moths, formerly known as gypsy moths, are often inadvertently transported by humans when they hide in or on items such as vehicles, outdoor gear, and particularly firewood. This unintentional transport can lead to the introduction of these pests into new areas where they can establish populations.

While the moths are capable of flight and can utilize wind dispersal under certain conditions, these methods do not account for the broader and more impactful way in which they typically spread to new locations. Human activities, including the movement of untreated firewood, play a significant role in their distribution, making hitchhiking and firewood the main contributors to their propagation across landscapes. This highlights the importance of awareness regarding how invasive species can spread through human actions.