Warning: Browntail Moths, caterpillars (Maine)

[RememberSchiff 3662]

Speaking from recent experience, beware these caterpillars which have infested Maine and other parts this summer. Browntail caterpillar hairs are toxic with toxicity lasting 3 years. Hairs are easily airborne from shedding, raking, mowing and cause a poison ivy rash (only worse) and respiratory distress if breathed. Found in hardwoods - red oak (did a number on oaks here), apple, birch.

A browntail moth caterpillar Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Note two dots  on tail end.

 

Hairs on adults are supposedly not toxic but may have residual caterpillar hairs  when  emerging from cocoon.  I am considering putting out a light sheet to capture some of these moths to send to state labs.  I haven't done that since back in day at scout camp,  back then moths were safer, only bothering trees in their youth.

https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/forest_health/invasive_threats/browntail_moth_faqs.htm

https://wikivisually.com/wiki/Brown-tail_moth

https://bugguide.net/node/view/36900