But the hairs can still be toxic for up to three years, experts say.
They can cause skin irritation that feels like a poison ivy reaction and even respiratory problems for some people, the AP reported.
The moth is an invasive species found along the coasts of Maine and Massachusetts, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's U.S. Forest Service.
The caterpillars can cause large, even complete, defoliation, the Forest Service said.
The department is trying to develop a baculovirus to control the population of the browntail moth.
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