What is a processionary caterpillar?
The oak processionary caterpillar is a dangerous and annoying caterpillar species. The oak processionary caterpillar, also known as the processionary caterpillar, is a nocturnal caterpillar that can eventually grow into a moth. This caterpillar species owes its name to the fact that they are active in oak trees and go in procession in search of food (oak leaves). Especially in the months of May, June and July, the hairy oak processionary caterpillars are very active and pose a potential danger to humans. The stinging hairs they spread pose potential health risks.
Oak processionary caterpillar: where do these pests occur?
In the past, the processionary caterpillar was mainly found in the south and east of North Brabant and part of Limburg. Since 1987, the oak processionary caterpillar has spread throughout the Netherlands. In almost every province you can encounter the oak processionary caterpillar and you run the risk of suffering from complaints.
Oak processionary caterpillar: complaints and itching
The oak processionary caterpillar can cause annoying complaints. The devil of the oak processionary caterpillar lies in the presence of the many microscopic stinging hairs. Examples of oak processionary caterpillar complaints are that you suffer from skin rashes, swelling, red eyes and itching.
There are mainly health risks during the period when oak processionary caterpillars develop stinging hairs (mid-May-June) and when these stinging hairs continue to spread from empty nests (July-September). There does not have to be direct contact with the caterpillar to get complaints. The stinging hairs can also be carried by the wind and end up on the skin or in clothing.
Oak processionary caterpillar: when do they cause a nuisance?
The periods of nuisance are different for the processionary caterpillar. From September to mid-May, discomfort is limited. The caterpillars are still larvae and do not pose a danger to your health. From mid-May to September, discomfort increases. The peak of oak processionary caterpillars is in the months of June, July, August and September. You will then have to deal with fully grown caterpillars that can cause a nuisance with their burning hairs.
Can processionary caterpillars also cause nuisance to animals?
It’s not just humans who can get complaints from the processionary caterpillar. Your dog can also suffer from the stinging hairs of the oak processionary caterpillar during a walk in the woods. In addition to dogs, horses are also susceptible to the complaints caused by this caterpillar species. So make sure that you stay as far away from infected areas as possible with your dog or horse. Do you see that your pet or horse is still suffering? Rinse the animals and, in the worst case, call in a veterinarian.
Oak processionary caterpillar complaints: how to prevent discomfort?
There are many things you can do to prevent oak processionary caterpillar symptoms such as skin rashes and other discomforts. Stay away from infested trees and shrubs within a radius of 100 meters. Avoid any contact with the caterpillars and their remains, such as with released stinging hairs. In addition, it is recommended to provide sufficient coverage for your neck, arms and legs when visiting nature reserves. Have you come into contact with the oak processionary caterpillar? Do not get into a suit and avoid rubbing your eyes or scratching other parts of your body. This can spread the stinging hairs further. Wash or rinse the skin and/or eyes well with water and put your clothes in the washing machine on a program preferably at 60 °C.
Do you still suffer from oak processionary caterpillar complaints? These generally disappear within two weeks. In case of serious complaints, contact your doctor. If the oak processionary caterpillar occurs in your living environment, try to prevent stinging hairs or nests from blowing into the house.
Fighting processionary caterpillars: call in Van der Velden!
Do you suspect the presence and nuisance of the oak processionary caterpillar? Avoid all contact with the caterpillar and its remains. You need to take action as soon as possible! Call in a professional pest control professional. Pest control must be done as well as possible, with the caterpillars being removed as much as possible and no stinging hairs ending up in the air. With the help of special vacuum cleaners, among other things, our expert staff can do this job for you. Read more about oak processionary caterpillar control here…
Although the manager of the infested area is responsible, it is always good to contact the municipality or a professional pest control company as soon as possible. This way, all parties involved can take action quickly. The control of oak processionary caterpillars is pre-eminently a matter for experts. This way you can enjoy the beautiful nature carefree anytime, anywhere.
Want to know more about the oak processionary caterpillar and how to control the processionary caterpillar? Get in touch with Van der Velden!
Would you like to know more about the oak processionary caterpillar and how to combat the processionary caterpillar? Get in touch with Van der Velden! We have years of experience in pest control and can therefore also help you combat the oak processionary caterpillar. Call Van der Velden Pest Control directly, 085 019 3240! We can help you directly on the phone. You can also reach us by e-mail at info@bestrijdingsdienst.nl.
