Efforts to defeat the moth started within days of its discovery in 1897 but, so far, the Old World invader has managed to hang on in New England.
browntail moth
Posted inMaine
Emergence of browntail moths across central Maine shows growing scope of outbreak
While the moths do not pose the same risk as the caterpillars, with their toxic, rash-causing hairs, the moths clearly illustrate the spread of the invasive species into central Maine.
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Posted inMaine
Demand for browntail moth remedies spikes as pests’ rash spreads in central Maine
Pharmacies are seeing record-high demand for specialized rash sprays while consumers have also reported empty shelves at some local stores.
Posted inAndroscoggin County, Lewiston-Auburn, Maine
Browntail moth caterpillars already a big nuisance in Androscoggin County
Not only are the number of caterpillars increasing, but researchers are finding populations in central and western Maine for the first time since the caterpillars were identified in the state over 100 years ago.
Posted inMaine
Waterville officials declare health emergency, launch media campaign to combat browntail moth caterpillar infestation
The city is posting notices at parks and playgrounds and on city websites and Facebook pages to inform people of the health hazards of browntail moth caterpillars.
Posted inMaine
Dry weather a boon for pest browntail moth caterpillars in central Maine
Recent drought conditions mean a natural fungus that keeps the infestation in check isn’t happening, as the caterpillars with poisonous hairs decimate trees in some areas of the region.
Posted inMaine, News
Fungus appears to be an ally in fight against browntail moth caterpillars
Maine’s rainy, cool weather in May and June has caused some localized collapses in the population of the pests.
Posted inConnections
211 phone line now available for browntail moth questions
People with questions can now call 211 Maine to speak to a specialist regarding browntail moth biology, management, pesticide options, health concerns, reducing toxic hair exposure and potential public policy and economic impacts.
Posted inMaine, News
Maine rolls out new ‘hub’ for browntail moth information
Mainers can now call or text 211 to speak to a specialist about the invasive species that causes heath problems.