Falmouth halts spraying for browntail moth

Large populations of browntail moths detected in many Waterville-area towns

Albion, Belgrade, China, Vassalboro and Winslow have large populations of the caterpillars.

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.

Falmouth sees markedly fewer browntail moth nests due to spraying, fungus

The town sprayed 24 "high risk" roads to kill off browntail moths. Spraying helps fend off public health hazards caused by caterpillar hair; the effort was helped this year by a fungus that kills off the caterpillars, according to a state entomologist.

Forget ‘murder hornets,’ Maine officials warn itch-inducing caterpillars are coming back

Maine Department of Health and Human Services officials are urging the public to take precautions against browntail moth caterpillars, which are covered in toxic hairs that release into the air and can cause a skin reaction like poison ivy and trouble breathing if inhaled.

Now’s the time to get rid of pesky caterpillars, Maine says

Winter is prime time to remove browntail moth caterpillars, which can cause a painful rash in humans.

State issues reminder to eliminate browntail moth caterpillars

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry wants people to kill the insects, which are harmful to both humans and trees, before they become active again in the spring.

Falmouth considering registration, reports for pesticide use

With the new rule, the Conservation Commission hopes to encourage more selective usage.

Commentary: Maine arborists look to shield living things from anti-moth treatment

The latest science informs efforts to fend off unprecedented threats to our beloved trees.

Yarmouth weighing resolution that could lead to aerial spraying for browntail

A formal council declaration, subject to approval by the Maine CDC, will be considered at the Sept. 19 meeting.