Infestation of Rusty Tussock Caterpillars (Orgyia antiqua) in Nome River Valley

Observation by Anahma Shannon:

Black and yellow caterpillars are infesting our neighborhood eating swaths of willows and yard plants. I’ve included photos of my rhubarb leaves and our airplane tires which are covered in them. We went to the coast yesterday, about 30 miles away, and they did not appear to be in that area. We’re not sure if it’s a localized infestation or if other areas are experiencing the same. They’ve been present for about three weeks.

Jessie Moan with the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension writes:

The caterpillars are tussock moth caterpillars (genus Orgyia). They are known to feed on a variety of trees and shrubs and can defoliate large areas when populations are high. Populations can vary from year to year depending on the weather.

Rachael Lee, Environmental Health Director for the Norton Sound Health Corporation, writes:

Are people developing skin rashes after handling these critters? If so, any general advice for home self-care to minimize the symptoms? Thanks!

Comments from LEO editors:

LEO has received two observations this week about an unusually high abundance of caterpillars in the Nome area, which could be correlated with the unusually warm summer being experienced statewide. There have been several other observations about caterpillar infestations throughout the state in past years. Elizabeth Lindley