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Duluth, Minn. (AP)

First ever gypsy moth caterpillar in Minn. confirmed

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Gypsy moth larva
The gypsy moth larvae do the damage by eating foliage off trees.
Photo courtesy of USDA Forest Service

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.

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Information from: Duluth News Tribune

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Gallery
1 of 2
Gypsy moth larva
The gypsy moth larvae do the damage by eating foliage off trees.
Photo courtesy of USDA Forest Service
2 of 2
Adult female gypsy moth
An adult female gypsy moth.
Photo courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service