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PublishedJune 27, 2020
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.
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PublishedJune 2, 2020
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.
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PublishedMay 7, 2020
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.
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PublishedDecember 4, 2019
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.
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PublishedDecember 4, 2019
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.
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PublishedNovember 11, 2019
Falmouth considering registration, reports for pesticide use
With the new rule, the Conservation Commission hopes to encourage more selective usage.
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PublishedNovember 8, 2019
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.
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PublishedSeptember 10, 2019
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.
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PublishedJuly 3, 2019
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.
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PublishedMay 30, 2019
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.
