Browntail and gypsy moths

摘要

Browntail and gypsy moth caterpillars can cause much damage to trees, but their risk to human health poses a bigger problem to local authorities. The hairs borne by the caterpillars can, if touched, cause skin irritation, In the case of the browntailmoth, skin rashes can be persistent. The hairs can be blown about on the wind and, in people who suffer from asthma or hay fever, can cause difficulty with breathing if inhaled. The hairs can even cause itching if they contaminate clothes drying on washing lines.