Eichen processionary spinner: Red alarm level in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim!

Eichen processionary spinner: Red alarm level in the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim!

In the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim, the spread of the oak processionary spinner assumes alarming proportions. Current reports from Nordkurier show a record infestation that concerns both the number of nests per infected tree and the distribution in the region. This year, individual trees and whole avenues are so affected that they have already been eaten completely bare.

experts are surprised by the rapid increase in the caterpillars and consider a trend reversal. Similar findings are also reported from adjacent counties in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Brandenburg. Despite the necessary annual monitoring of the infestation, which takes place on the recording of nests around 150 street sections, the measures do not seem to be sufficient.

people and the environment in danger

The health risks that emerge from the caterpillars' brain hair should not be underestimated. These can trigger severe allergic reactions - from reddening of the skin to itching to respiratory traits. ndr reports that fighting measures are particularly needed in the vicinity of kindergartens.

The fighting of the nests should be carried out without exception by experienced specialist companies. This work must be completed by the end of July to minimize the dangers for the population and pets. When it comes to mowing and tree care work, it is essential to pay attention to the nests, since the burning hair of the caterpillars can represent health risks.

future measures

For the coming season 2024, it was decided that a central, large -scale combat is not economically portable. Instead, individual measures are recommended for individual trees or trees in closed towns. However, a helicopter use to combat strongly affected avenue sections outside of towns remains possible.
The experts put great hope in the biological control methods that are to be applied next spring to combat the freshly slipped caterpillars.

The district asks the citizens to report seriously infected oaks under the authorities number 115 in order to plan suitable measures. This increasing burden also requires a detailed data evaluation for the upcoming control strategies. The Federal Environment Agency also pointed out the importance of warning signs and barriers in affected forest areas.

The situation forces the authorities to initiate more comprehensive control measures in spring 2026. The population is asked to be vigilant and report the spread of this pest - the well -being of the trees and the people in the region is at stake.