Winter Moth Caterpillars Hatching Early In Massachusetts

BOSTON (CBS) -- The mild winter gave everyone a break from the snow, but it's looking like the bugs are coming out early this year.

Winter moth caterpillars are hatching now across Massachusetts.

"They're a little bit ahead of schedule," an expert from Lynch Plant Healthcare tells WBZ-TV. "Starting next week and through the end of May, we're really looking for those caterpillars to hatch and start defoliating the leaves."

Last year's record-breaking winter ended up delaying the caterpillar hatch.

Maples, Cherries, Crabapples and Oaks are primarily at risk from the caterpillars.