Browntail Moth Caterpillar Update

May 22, 2020 Invasive Species, News
Comparison of 3rd instar (lower caterpillar) and 4th instar (upper caterpillar) BTM larvae; On the 4th instar larva, note the fuzzier appearance as well as the white markings on the sides of each body segment.
Tom Schmeelk, Maine Forest ServiceComparison of 3rd instar (lower caterpillar) and 4th instar (upper caterpillar) BTM larvae; On the 4th instar larva, note the fuzzier appearance as well as the white markings on the sides of each body segment.

Tom Schmeelk, Maine Forest Service (MFS) FHM entomologist, reports that many browntail moth webs at his field sites in Lincoln and Cumberland county do not have evidence of caterpillar emergence although there are some that are active.  He also reports caterpillars have developed to the 4th instar from Turner and Harpswell south to Portland.  Caterpillars in the 4th instar are the first to have the irritating hairs that cause human health impacts.  Stay tuned for updates!

Also: Help Report Cases of Diseased [Browntail] Caterpillars to the Maine Forest Service