Oak processionary moth is spreading: health risk for Saxony!

Oak processionary moth is spreading: health risk for Saxony!

The oak processionary moth, a pest that is increasingly widespread in Germany, has now also established itself in Saxony. This species has become increasingly common since the 1990s. Climate change plays a crucial role in this, as it provides this pest with optimal conditions for its spread. Experts are now warning about the health risks posed by the caterpillars.

Oak processionary moth caterpillars primarily cause caterpillar dermatitis, an allergic reaction that can lead to itching, swelling and even asthma attacks. These health consequences are currently more urgent than the damage to the oak trees themselves. The stinging hairs, which are formed from the third larval stage onwards, emit the nettle poison thaumetopoein. The poison can be spread by the wind and cause both skin and eye irritation. The Welt reports that these symptoms are occurring more frequently as more and more federal states are affected.

Distribution in Germany

The oak processionary moth has already been spotted in several federal states, including Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Berlin, Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. However, the spread varies significantly between regions. Measures are being taken to combat the pest in many areas, including in the Lüneburg district, where nematodes are used. These natural remedies are safe for humans and can eliminate up to 90% of the oak processionary moth population. Nematodes are preferably sprayed on the treetops after sunset.

The caterpillars live in large colonies and nests reach a size comparable to a football. They hatch from the eggs in mid to late April, which are preferably laid on free-standing oak trees. This phase is considered particularly critical because the caterpillars are primarily active at night during their feeding period.

Health risks and prevention

The health impacts of the spread of the oak processionary moth are worrying. As the Spiegel reports, not only the direct allergic reactions are a problem, but also the long-term health consequences caused by contact with the stinging hairs can arise.

Overall, it is clear that the oak processionary moth not only represents an ecological problem, but also poses significant health risks. This makes it all the more important to develop suitable prevention and control measures to protect the population and contain the spread of these caterpillar pests.