Winter-moth numbers dropping thanks to bug that eats their young from the inside, state says

Wicked Local Roslindale reports UMass pest experts are seeing a decline in the number of pesky winter moths thanks to a longterm program to import flies that kill the moths.

The moths, originally from Europe, have become a common sight in early winter as the males flit about looking for love with females, who just lounge around, wingless, waiting for suitors. About 14 years ago, the state began importing a type of fly that helps control the moths in Europe. The flies lay their eggs on the same leaves munched by winter-moth caterpillars. The eggs then hatch inside the caterpillars and then the fly larvae eat the caterpillars inside out.

State experts say the species of fly involved, Cyzenis albicans, only goes after winter moths, so we don't have to worry about a Chinese needle snake/gorilla situation.