MACHIAS — Wild blueberry growers are checking their crops following the discovery of span worms and flea beetles in some fields in eastern Maine.

David Yarborough of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension says he saw extensive damage on some barrens in Washington County. The worms and beetles chew on new bush growth and can gnaw bushes to the ground.

But Yarborough tells the Bangor Daily News that the outbreak is not widespread and appears to be limited to some fields in Centerville Township. He said the outbreak is part of a natural cycle and that growers shouldn’t be alarmed.