Box Tree Moth, native to East Asia, first found in NY in 2021, now in Massachusetts; invasive caterpillars feed on boxwood shrubs, pose threats to local ecosystems.

State officials warn of the invasive Box Tree Moth, native to East Asia, first spotted in New York in 2021 and now in Barnstable, Bourne, and Sandwich areas. The caterpillars feed on boxwood shrubs, with little known about their life cycle. Nurseries are urged to develop plans to prevent further spread. First seen in Europe and Canada, the moths pose potential threats to local ecosystems.

March 06, 2024
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