MADISON (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that the state's recently high spongy moth population has decreased by a large enough amount to end its title of 'outbreak.'

The remaining hotspots were either aerially sprayed or naturally collapsed.

Only a handful of caterpillars were reported by property owners.

Spongy moth populations are now expected to be low for the next few years. Some areas may see larger numbers.

Late fall is a good time to look for and dispose of spongy moth egg masses. Property owners can scrape egg masses into soapy water or apply an egg mass oil to suffocate the eggs.

An egg mass survey can be conducted to help property owners and communities predict 2026 activity, and to determine if active management is needed.

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