The Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation & Forestry put out recent information about the destruction to trees in areas of Maine due to the Browntail Moth activity we've seen recently but, they are also seeing signs of population decrease.

History of Browntail Moth In Maine

The Browntail Moth has been an invasive species in Maine for over a century. Not much impact was seen with decades of population growth and decrease over the years. But, things changed in the early 2000s and now the presence of this insect is well known and making life quite uncomfortable for a lot of Mainers.

Its recent upswing in population in coastal towns in recent years has caused quite a stir for those living along the coast and now affecting areas more inland, especially up the Penobscot River.

The caterpillar form of the insect produces poisonous hairs that get trapped in their nests and can become airborne. When these poisonous hairs come into contact with humans it can cause rash and itching similar to poison ivy and if breathed in can cause respiratory problems.

Latest Observations

In a recent newsletter sent out by the Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation & Forestry, it is being observed that some webs are showing fewer signs of activity by the insect.

One explanation that the department is proposing is that there could be a pathogen present in the population. Investigations are underway to see if this is the case and if so, it seems as though Mother Nature is taking a little mercy on us and helping to curb this natural borne problem that may have a natural borne solution.

Plan Ahead

Check out tips from the Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation & Forestry on how to reduce the impact of the Browntail Moth in your neighborhood with tips on what you can do now to reduce their population where you live, including web removal and destruction options.

University of Maine Researchers Doing Browntail Moth Study

This pilot study is determining if pheromones could be the key to disrupting the Maine pests population and help reduce the infestation across the State of Maine. Ultimately, this research could be the large scale answer to dealing with the Browntail Moth problem here in the state.

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The bustling and scenic town of Ellsworth has a lot of history, old and new and lots of experiences to have, old and new. Whether you want to take a train ride, take the kids to the park, get a sweet tattoo, treat yourself or find that after-party early morning breakfast, here are 25 businesses and locations to really get some memorable experiences at the good vibes town Downeast Maine, Ellsworth.

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Because the regulation of exotic animals is left to states, some organizations, including The Humane Society of the United States, advocate for federal, standardized legislation that would ban owning large cats, bears, primates, and large poisonous snakes as pets.

Read on to see which pets are banned in your home state, as well as across the nation.

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