No. 4.] GYPSY MOTH. 815 



being the first actual finding of the moth in this country out- 

 side of this Commonwealth. Upon invitation of the Rhode 

 Island authorities, the colony was examined by the Secretary 

 and A. H. Kirkland, M.S., former assistant entomologist to 

 this committee. It was found that the infestation consisted, 

 not, as might have been expected, of one large, strong colony, 

 but rather of many small, distinct infestations, of practically 

 the same age, scattered over some four or five square miles 

 in the residential part of the city. To those familiar with 

 the habits of the moth, it is evident that this condition of 

 affairs could not have arisen from natural causes. Every 

 circumstance yet discovered indicates that the moth was de- 

 liberately taken to Providence and purposely scattered by 

 some malicious or irresponsible person. 



The Bkown-tail Moth. 



This insect has spread rapidly throughout eastern Massa- 

 chusetts, and, in fact, is now known to occur in New Hamp- 

 shire and Maine. Although chiefly a pest of the pear and 

 apple, it has seriously injured shade trees in many localities. 

 The most distressing feature of the spread of this insect 

 is not the damage done to trees, — sufficiently serious of 

 itself, — but rather the intense nettling caused by the cater- 

 pillars whenever they come in contact with human flesh. 

 This irritation results in severe suffering, particularly among 

 children. So severe was this affliction in the Brighton and 

 Allston districts last summer that a public hearing was held 

 by the Boston board of health to discuss the subject. 



Other Insects. 

 The notable damage wrought by the elm-leaf beetle in our 

 larger cities and towns is entitled to more than passing men- 

 tion. For some five or six years this insect has been increas- 

 ing in numbers and extendino; its domain in the State. Where 

 neglected, its numerous progeny soon - defoliate even the 

 largest elms, and the death of the trees ultimately results. 

 At Springfield, Northampton, Worcester and elsewhere, a 

 high degree of success has been obtained by thoroughly spray- 

 ing the trees with arsenate of lead early in the season, as soon 

 as the leaves unfold. 



