Mainers are urged to minimize exposure to the insect’s toxic hairs while doing yard work by covering up with a respirator and goggles and working when it’s damp.
browntail moth
Posted inNorthern Forecaster, The Forecaster
Yarmouth preps for return of invasive browntail moths
The town’s tree warden said he has already spotted nests around town and has a plan in place to eradicate them and others that crop up.
advertisement
Posted inLocal & State
State entomologist demonstrates how to curb browntail moths this winter, ahead of the spring
Maine Forest Service entomologist Colleen Teerling gave a presentation Saturday to a small crowd at Gardiner Public Library on how to use a pole pruner and saw to cut browntail moth nests out of trees.
Posted inLocal & State
Portland’s city arborist reflects on 34 years of service
Jeff Tarling plans to retire at the end of the month from his job overseeing forestry and horticulture for the city of Portland.
Posted inLocal & State
Browntail moth threat eases in capital region, but remains a threat elsewhere in Maine
While the population explosion of browntail moths didn’t happen as expected in 2022, experts say the threat posed by the invasive pest still exists and people should continue to take measures to destroy winter nests.
Posted inNews
Law to combat browntail moths goes into effect
A new law sponsored by Rep. Allison Hepler, D-Woolwich, to provide direct funds to communities to support their efforts to reduce the presence of browntail moths went into effect this week. LD 1929, An Act To Provide Assistance to Areas Severely Infested with Browntail Moths, creates a fund for municipalities and nonprofit organizations, such as a […]
Posted inLocal & State, News
Fungus kills browntail moth caterpillars in areas of Maine
The moths are dying off in the Midcoast and parts of the capital because rainfall during the last 2 weeks has promoted the growth of the fungus.
Posted inLocal & State
Conservationists say some Maine residents are killing the wrong moth
Some nature advocates are concerned Maine residents are killing the wrong caterpillar as they seek to wipe out an invasive species that causes a rash with its toxic hairs
Posted inTimes Record
Maine Forest Service: Stop browntail moth hitchhikers
The Maine Forest Service is asking everyone to check cars, trucks, boats, bikes, ATVs and other vehicles for wandering browntail moth caterpillars. “Now through late June, browntail moth caterpillars become expert hitchhikers,” the Forest Service stated in a press release. “When they catch a ride, the browntail moth may set up house in a new […]
Posted inLocal & State, News
Browntail moths returning, but scientists are working to limit their spread
Although there are reasons for optimism, Mainers should be prepared to deal with the pesky insect again this summer.