Record infestation of the oak processionary spinner: Danger for Ludwigslust!

Record infestation of the oak processionary spinner: Danger for Ludwigslust!

In the district of Ludwigslust-Parchim, alarming messages can be heard about the oak processionary spinner. This pest has spread to an extent that has never been documented before and ensures concern among experts and residents alike. [NDR] (https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/mecklenburg-vormern/ekordfall-deichenzefreichspinner-in-ludwigslust-parchim, oak processionary-102.html) reports of high infestation and a considerable number of nests per infected tree. This leads to memorable pictures in nature, because individual avenues are already eaten completely bare.

The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth are known for their nettle hair, which can trigger severe allergic reactions. These health risks should not be underestimated: symptoms range from rashes to eye infections to respiratory problems. [Stern] (https://www.stern.de/sgesellschaft/mecklenburg-vorpommern/unerwuenschte-art-eichen procession spiner-Festival-Uperten-35861094.html) illustrates not only the garden owners, but also the everyday life of the residents, because window openings and drying drys affected areas are severely restricted.

measures and outlook

The fight against this undesirable kind is on the agenda for the coming spring, but some hurdles will occur here. The removal of the nests can only be carried out by experienced specialist companies in compliance with strict safety precautions. A centrally coordinated approach will not be possible this season; A fact that is due to the observations from 2024. [NDR] (https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/mecklenburg-vormern/kordfall-deich-deichsprinner-in-ludwigslust-parchim, oak processionary-102.html) underlines that it is too late for a large-scale combat this year, since the caterpillars have already been passed into the doll phase.

The problem is also difficult by the unclear cause of the spread. Experts have been "surprised" by this development, which spreads from the southwest to the northwest, as [Stern] (https://www.stern.de/sgesellschaft/regional/mecklenburg-vorpommern/unerwuenschte-art-eichenpronal-fall-fall-ueberrumpelt ---experten-35861094.html). Similar attacks have been observed in adjacent counties such as the Mecklenburg Lake District and Northwest Mecklenburg.

tips for security

The caterpillars usually slip at the end of April and go through several stages in which they develop the dreaded burner hair. However, this hair can trigger allergies years after the caterpillar period as soon as you can find yourself in the undergrowth. [BR] (https://www.br.de/nachrichten/enkeien/ichenpronzessenspinner-gefaehrlich-schlich- Allergie-Symptome, rs2pfyc) gives important tips for safety: When contacting the caterpillar hair, you should change, take a shower and put the clothes in the washing machine.

In particular, parents are asked to educate their children about the danger. No child should strip through the undergrowth or climb on oak, since the dangers that emerge from the burning hair cause considerable health risks. The warning is clear: if the rash or shortness of breath, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

The situation requires quick action and vigilance from all sides. The district asks the citizens to report heavily affected oaks to get a precise picture of the situation. So let's stay on the subject and hope for a soon possible solution.