How did gypsy moths get their name and why do some people consider it offensive? Gypsy moths - or Lymantria dispar by their scientific name - are an invasive species that are known to swarm trees and strip them of their bark. AdvertisementThe move was met with skepticism on social media, with one Twitter user writing: 'Good luck getting people to stop calling Gypsy moths Gypsy moths.' Another wrote: 'Gypsy moths are extremely well known with a very old and strongly associated common name that I doubt is going anywhere. Gypsy moths are invasive and destructive insects in the caterpillar stage.

Source: Daily Mail July 09, 2021 19:51 UTC