Arborists warn tree pest problems in Western District could escalate

Pests that could lead to tree deaths flare up again in parts of the Western District.

The caterpillars of Phauda flammans moths, a type of day-flying bright red-and-black moth species, can feed on trees in the Ficus genus voraciously, especially Chinese Banyans or mountain fig.

Severe outbreaks could strip tree canopies bare and repeated defoliation could lead to tree death.

They could be seen at Blake Garden in Sheung Wan and King George V Memorial Park in Sai Ying Pun.

Some arborists -- those who study tree art and cultivation -- warn the pest problem has spread to areas including Caine Road Garden.

And if there are no torrential rain or gusts to sweep the bugs off the trees over the next few weeks, the moths could breed exponentially and spread to Central and Admiralty.