Eichen processionary spinner: City asks for a message of dangerous nests!

Eichen processionary spinner: City asks for a message of dangerous nests!

Hohen Neuendorf, Deutschland - The danger from the oaks

In Hohen Neuendorf, it is time to give attention: the oak processionary spinner, a domestic butterfly species, has trained its burner hair with a nettle poison in recent weeks. From the end of May to the beginning of July, his caterpillars are particularly active and can not only become a health danger for trees, but also for people. The city therefore asks all the citizens: to report the nests viewed in the public city green immediately. These should then be professionally sucked off by a specialist company in order to minimize the possible dangers. The nests can be recognized by the typical spinning nests in the oaks and should be viewed from a safe distance, since the poisonous hairs can fall down and trigger breath short or allergic reactions, as the [Federal Environment Agency] (https://www.umweltbundamt.de/eichenproner-swinner- on-haeufig warns.

A message to the civil engineering department of the city is simple: Write an email to deepbau@hohen-neuendorf.de and enter the exact location, at best with a photo from a safe distance. Private nests, on the other hand, should be reported to stadtservice@hohen-neuendorf.de . The city points out that these measures are also important for tree protection reasons, because the hungry caterpillars have a large appetite and can significantly damage the trees if there is severe infestation.

Health risks in focus

The caterpillars have it all: their hen hair can cause skin reductions and itching, also known as caterpillar matitis, especially on uncovered parts of the body such as neck, face and arms. Respiratory irritation is also not uncommon, with preloaded people, this can even lead to shortness of breath. Severe allergic reactions up to the anaphylactic shock have already been observed in individual cases. This is also reported by the AOK. The city therefore recommends avoiding direct contact and reporting found nests as quickly as possible.

In recent years, there have been mass increases by the oak processionary spinner, especially in north-east and southwestern Germany. However, there are also signs of a decline in populations in some regions. If possible, combating should take place gently. Measures such as warning signs and barriers in affected areas are just as important as the occasional use of approved biocide products and pesticides, as the Federal Environment Agency states. However, these should only be carried out in exceptional cases and taking into account all application provisions to avoid damage to non -target types.

together against the risk

The city of Hohen Neuendorf is active and wants to draw attention to the danger. The right action of the citizens can be crucial inside to prevent the spread of the oak processionary spinner and to protect the health of everyone. Don't forget: Every contribution counts when it comes to recognizing and reporting nests. Together we can ensure that the oaks and the people in our city stay healthy.

Further information on symptoms and dangerousness of the caterpillars can be found on the side of the Federal Environment Agency.