Caterpillar rise could threaten horses

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Researchers at the University of Kentucky are warning horse owners about a heavy population of caterpillars this spring that was particularly damaging to central Kentucky seven years ago.

UK entomologists say there has not been any reported case of mare reproductive loss syndrome this year. However, there has been a significant spike in the reported number of eastern tent caterpillars linked to the condition.

MRLS can cause weakened and damaged foals. During an outbreak in 2001, about 30 percent of the thoroughbred foal crop was lost. The economic damage to the state was approximately $336 million.