ALLENTOWN — Gypsy moth caterpillars have made a surprising comeback this summer, defoliating up to a million acres in Pennsylvania.

The moths made a resurgence after a number of down years due to a naturally occurring gypsy moth fungus. That caught entomologists, government officials and landowners off guard.

Monroe County, which has an abundance of oaks, which is a gypsy moth favorite, has been among the hardest-hit areas in the state and the nation.

Most counties had curtailed aerial spraying programs because the moths had been in decline for years. So, this year's moths have been left alone to breed.

Now, officials are worried they might not have the money or the resources to combat the problem next year.