Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Fungus Cuts Browntail Moth Population, Eases Maine's Rashes

1/6/2025

45 6

Summary

Story summary

In 2024, a powerful fungus dramatically slashed browntail moth populations in Maine, bringing sweet relief from the painful rashes their tiny hairs cause. Defoliation plummeted from 46,000 acres in 2023 to just 2,000 acres. Experts are hopeful for a continued decline in 2025, signaling a possible end to this troublesome outbreak.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 2024, a powerful fungus dramatically slashed browntail moth populations in Maine, bringing sweet relief from the painful rashes their tiny hairs cause. Defoliation plummeted from 46,000 acres in 2023 to just 2,000 acres. Experts are hopeful for a continued decline in 2025, signaling a possible end to this troublesome outbreak.