BANGOR DAILY NEWS • January 25, 2022
Winter is a good time of year to battle browntail moths, the invasive insects that have been wreaking havoc across the state. Found in Maine and on Cape Cod, the caterpillar stage of the moth has poisonous hairs that can cause a painful, poison ivy-like rash and respiratory problems. The insect also defoliates trees. Last year’s outbreak was thought to be one of the worst in 100 years, and webs were found in every county in the state. Removing the nests now while the insects are hibernating is much safer than combatting browntail moths and their larvae in the spring and summer.