Rhode Island’s Big Blue Bug gets fresh paint after vandalism

photo by Tessa Roy WPRO News

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island’s famous Big Blue Bug is getting a fresh coat of paint about a week after being hit by vandals who defaced it with spray paint.

Painters from Dennis Moffitt Painting on Thursday climbed on the roof of pest control company Big Blue Bug Solutions in Providence to cover the graffiti. WPRO’s Gene Valicenti joined in on the repainting as well. Workers will add a sealant on Friday.

The work is expected to cost several hundred dollars.

The 58-foot termite replica known as Nibbles Woodaway has overlooked Interstate 95 for 40 years.

It is often seen in aerial shots of the city and in movies.

The vandals remain at large.