Kleve fights against voracious caterpillars: This is how the city is protected!

Kleve fights against voracious caterpillars: This is how the city is protected!

The environmental businesses of the city of Kleve have announced that they will start combating the oak processionary spinner. This measure starts on April 28, 2025 and runs until May 12, 2025. The active ingredient is absorbed by the caterpillars with food and stops the further development of these pests, which ultimately leads to their death. It is important to be mentioned that the funds used for people, animals and plants are harmless, which according to Antenneiderrhein.de

The control measures are carried out in different parts of the city in a specified period. April 28, 2025 will begin in Reichswalde, followed by Materborn, where the application takes place on April 29 and 30. Other districts such as cattle, Düffelward and Keeken will be dealt with on May 2. Griethausen, Wardhausen, Bimmen and Warbeyen are on May 5th and 6th, while Kellen is sprayed from May 7th to 9th. The last day of operation is planned on May 12, 2025 in the forest garden.

health risks and symptoms

The caterpillars of the oak processionary spinner are known for their toxic broken hair, which contain the Thaumetopein nettle poison. The contact with these burner hair can trigger strong allergic reactions in humans and animals. Possible symptoms include rashes, strong itching, quaddle formation and even breathing difficulties. In severe cases, even allergic shocks can occur. Particularly endangered skin areas are most common in the neck, the face, the inside of the elbow as well as the arms and legs. This information comes from a report by Oekotest.de .

The caterpillars usually slip at the end of April and are particularly active between the end of May and the end of June. During this time, they lose a large part of their burner hair that can be spread through the wind. Therefore, special caution is required when you are traveling near the oak. In contact, affected items of clothing should be changed immediately, the skin was washed thoroughly and rinsed out the eyes to avoid serious reactions. Pets, especially dogs, are also at risk and should be presented to a veterinarian immediately for symptoms.

The oak processionary spinner and its spread

The oak processionary spinner increasingly spreads in Germany, which is partly attributed to climate change. His caterpillars live in large groups and gnaw the oaks. They can form processions up to ten meters long while looking for food. When combating these pests, specialist knowledge is required, and homeowners should be aware that they have to bear the cost of combating themselves, but can deduct part of the tax.

The dangers from the brick hair of the oak processionary spinner should not be underestimated. Even Years after the caterpillar season, thesis hairs can still bare irritation and allergic reactions. It is advised to report nests immediately to the responsible authorities to prevent the plague from spreading.