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Minnesota agriculture officials have
confirmed the first-ever sighting of a gypsy moth caterpillar in
the state, a disturbing discovery that hints at threats of
deforestation in coming years.


      The caterpillar was confirmed Thursday in Duluth. It was 2
inches long and furry with blue and red spots.


      Gypsy moths have been seen in eastern Minnesota for several
years. Officials hoped the moths were blowing in from other states
and not hatching locally, but this discovery suggests otherwise.


      Developing gypsy moths spend several weeks as caterpillars that
eat leaves voraciously enough to defoliate large areas quickly.


      So far only the single caterpillar has been found. The Duluth
News Tribune says state wildlife officials are working to
understand how widespread the problem is.

Gallery

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Tree-destroying gypsy moths spreading in NE Minn.

Environmental News

Minnesota News

Greater Minnesota

Minnesota agriculture officials have
confirmed the first-ever sighting of a gypsy moth caterpillar in the state -- in Duluth. It's a disturbing discovery that hints at threats of
deforestation in coming years.

First ever gypsy moth caterpillar in Minn. confirmed

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