It is Brown Tail Moth Season
Group of Larvae . Silk tent around egg sac
Caterpillar Adult Moth
Exposure to the brown tail moth in any portion of its life cycle causes a painful irritating rash, example pictured below. The red hairs on the brown tail moth cause skin irritation and respiratory problems when inhaled. The rash can last from a few hours to several days or on sensitive individuals it can last for several weeks. After exposure, Hairs can be removed with duct tape, wash exposed skin with soap and water and change cloths. Launder cloths and clean washing machine. A prolonged or severe rash should be seen by a physician.
Do NOT TOUCH A BROWN TAIL MOTH
The caterpillars are active from April to June and become less of a problem over time as rain washes away the molted hairs.
According to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (http://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/forest_health/insects/browntail_moth_id_winter_nests.htm), brown tail moth egg sacs are present on small twigs and branches over the winter and early spring. Each egg sac contains approximately 25-400 caterpillars. If one is discovered take it down by clipping the branch and then soak the nest in soapy water to kill the larvae. Egg sacs should be removed over the winter months to decrease infestations in the spring.
Stay healthy everyone!
For more information visit the Maine CDC HERE
And remember, never touch a brown tail moth.
