Healthy Options 3/2/22: Browntail Moth in Maine: Protecting ourselves and our local communities as BTM spreads in Maine

Host/Producer: Rhonda Feiman
Co-Producer: Petra Hall
Technical assistance: Joel Mann & Amy Browne

Browntail Moth in Maine: Protecting ourselves and our local communities as BTM spreads in Maine

-What part of the Browntail Moth (BTM) is toxic to humans?
-What can we do to minimize our exposure to Browntail Moth caterpillars?
-What are some ways to reduce their spread, locally & statewide? Are there new methods to use?
-When is a good time to clip the webs? What do the webs look like & how can they be confused with other species that we don’t want to clip?
-Is it possible to use the compost after Browntail Moth/caterpillars have been seen?
-How long should the clipped webs stay in soapy water?
-What is the lifecycle of the Browntail Moth? What cycle are we in now?
-When should we turn our lights down and off so the male Browntail Moths don’t get attracted?
-Why are bug zappers and other devices that attract them not a good idea to use?

Guest: Maine Forest Service entomologist Tom Schmeelk, who is charged with managing the state’s response to the Browntail Moth (BTM) problem here in Maine.

Websites of Interest:

“Knock Out Browntail” with info. & links on the Maine Forest website

Belfast Library video presentation Feb. 2022: Browntail Moth and What You Need to Know- with entomologist Tom Schmeelk

Healthy Options interview with Tom Schmeelk April 2021

About the host:
Rhonda Feiman is a nationally-certified, licensed acupuncturist practicing in Belfast, Maine since 1993. She primarily practices Toyohari Japanese acupuncture, using gentle and powerful non-insertion needle techniques, and also utilizes Chinese acupuncture and herbology. In addition, Rhonda is a practitioner of Qi Gong and an instructor of Tai Chi Chuan in the Yang Family tradition.