Oak processionary moth overruns Sindelfingen: playgrounds closed!

Oak processionary moth overruns Sindelfingen: playgrounds closed!

In recent weeks, the oak processionary moth (EPS) has increasingly caused a stir in the Sindelfingen city area. Two playgrounds, the Schleicher children's playground and the Eichholzer Täle children's playground, were closed for safety reasons. The caterpillars of this native butterfly species are currently looking for food and nesting places before pupating in web nests. Dry weather in spring favored the development of the caterpillars, which led to a significant increase in the presence of these animals, such as [krzbb.de].

Particular caution is required as the caterpillars have fine stinging hairs that break when touched and release a toxic protein. Contact with these stinging hairs can cause itching, eye and respiratory irritation, and in some cases allergic reactions are possible. Therefore, preventative measures were taken, such as the use of biocides on exposed individual trees.

Preventive measures and control

In order to minimize the health risks for the population, various measures to combat the oak processionary moth are necessary. According to baumpflegeportal.de, the type of control measures depends on the severity of the infestation and human traffic. If the infestation is low, warnings may be sufficient, while if the infestation is high, cordoning off the area is appropriate. The measures are concentrated in heavily frequented urban facilities such as schools, daycare centers and playgrounds.

Nematodes, which have been used as biological control agents in areas such as the swimming center and play areas, are harmless to humans and can be effective in the first larval stage of the caterpillars. Other control options include mechanical methods such as vacuuming the nests or thermal methods, although the latter should be used with caution as they could release the stinging hairs into the air. Chemical methods should only be used in emergencies due to their negative effects on the environment, as umweltbundesamt.de explains.

Long-term solutions and challenges

Controlling the oak processionary moth is challenging because the caterpillars cause damage to oak trees, which are important in forestry areas. Large-scale occurrence may require local control measures. It is therefore essential to find a balance between minimizing health risks to the population and protecting the tree population. Preventative measures in urban forests are difficult to implement because the oak processionary moth is viewed as a typical forest threat.

Play areas will be inspected regularly, with closures provided as needed and feedback from the public. The development of a long-term control strategy system is sought to protect both the health of citizens and the biodiversity of our forests.