What is the pine processionary caterpillar?
The pine processionary caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) is the larva of a nocturnal moth that nests in pine trees and sometimes cedar trees. The caterpillars live in large groups and build conspicuous silken nests in the branches of trees.
These nests are often visible as white, silky balls in the tree canopy. In areas with many pine trees, such as gardens, parks, campsites, and recreational areas, the pine processionary caterpillar can cause considerable nuisance.
During certain periods, the caterpillars leave the tree and move across the ground in long lines, one after another. This behaviour is also called a "procession" and is the reason why this caterpillar was given the name processionary caterpillar.
How and why to treat a pine processionary caterpillar nest
The biggest problem with the pine processionary caterpillar is the microscopic stinging hairs that the caterpillars develop. One caterpillar can have hundreds of thousands of these stinging hairs. When caterpillars moult or when a nest is disturbed, these hairs are released.
The stinging hairs easily detach from the nest and can be spread over large distances by the wind. As a result, people and animals can experience symptoms even without direct contact with the caterpillars.
Because pine processionary caterpillar nests often occur in gardens, parks, recreational areas, and around homes, it is important that they are treated safely and effectively. By treating a nest promptly, further spread of stinging hairs can be prevented and nuisance can be limited.
Many people are therefore looking for an organic and biodegradable solution with which they can safely treat a pine processionary caterpillar nest themselves, without the use of aggressive chemical pesticides.
Common symptoms caused by pine processionary caterpillar stinging hairs include:
severe itching and skin rash
red or irritated eyes
respiratory tract irritation
shortness of breath or allergic reactions
irritation in pets
