Experts predict that this summer might be the worst brown tail moth outbreak in Maine since the species arrived in the state 100 years ago.

According to the Bangor Daily News, officials are predicting more moths this year over a larger area of the state.

Allison Kanoti, a state entomologist with the Maine Forest Service, says the increase in moth activity is largely due to an unusually dry spring combined with warmer than average late fall and early September temperatures.

The moths are an invasive species that can cause rashes and respiratory issues in humans, and can harm the tree population.