WatchOut for Hairly Caterpillars: Essential Information for Pedestrians - Cautionary Guidance for Walkers Regarding Potentially Harmful Catkel Hairs
When taking a stroll in oak forests or tending to oak trees in your backyard garden, exercise caution - especially in the southwest region right now. The Oak Processionary Caterpillar, with its venomous hairs causing health issues, has made a nationwide appearance. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), these hair-filled critters are a concern in various regions, with the Rhine area reporting the highest risk.
Recognizing these hazardous creatures can be a challenge for laypeople, says FVA expert Lea Dieckmann. Though they are brown-yellow or gray-black, almost 3 cm long, and primarily found on oaks, they can only be noticed late. These creatures move around in colonies and stick together, a sight reminiscent of a procession, earning them the name of "Oak Processionary Caterpillars." Their nests are distinctive, round webs on oak trees.
Lea Dieckmann strongly advises caution when signs of these caterpillars are present. By all means, keep your distance and stick to designated paths in forests. Never touch the caterpillars, their nests, or their molted remains, adds the expert. If you do end up coming into direct contact with them, wash the affected area thoroughly, change your clothes outside the house, and wash them on at least 60-degree heat. Don't forget to take a shower, especially shampooing your hair, to cleanse yourself completely.
Interestingly, Lea Dieckmann mentions the risk of encountering these dangerous caterpillars might be relatively low this year. "The overall situation in Baden-Württemberg is currently very quiet, we do not expect any significant infestations," she says. However, be aware that the caterpillars can still spawn locally, within regions like Stuttgart and Ostalb.
For those venturing into oak forests this season, it's crucial to know the key characteristics of Oak Processionary Caterpillars: dark with a white stripe on their sides, a preference for warm and dry oak trees, and propensity for procession movements. Their white, silk-like nests are another telltale sign. Remember, avoid direct contact, and keep up-to-date with local news to stay informed about their presence and threat levels.
In the context of community safety, it's crucial to be aware of the Oak Processionary Caterpillars, especially in the southwest region, due to their potential health-and-wellness risks. To identify these creatures, look for dark caterpillars with a white stripe on their sides, often found on warm, dry oak trees, organized in colonies, and with distinctive round, white nests on oak trees. Adhering to environmental-science recommendations, maintain a distance from these caterpillars, their nests, or their molted remains, and wash affected areas thoroughly to minimize health impacts.
