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Help Track a Hemlock Pest
February 26, 2026
Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is an aphid-like invasive insect that feeds on and can kill hemlock trees in Maine. To find HWA, look:
- On hemlock trees. In North America, HWA is found only on hemlock trees.
- On the undersides of hemlock twigs. At this time of year, HWA is covered in white tufts of wax and is easy to see. Look for discrete 'woolly' masses.
- At fallen twigs on top of the snow, as this will give you a picture of what is happening high in the crown. Unless you are in an area where HWA is commonly found (such as southern coastal towns), please let us know if you find it.
Unless you are in an area where HWA is commonly found (such as southern coastal towns), please let us know if you find it.