Warning in Bamberg: Dangerous oak processionary moth is spreading!

Warning in Bamberg: Dangerous oak processionary moth is spreading!

In recent weeks there has been an alarming development in the comparatively quiet city of Bamberg. The oak processionary moth, a native butterfly best known for its voracious caterpillars, is spreading rapidly. The Outer Nürnberger Straße and the playground on Greiffenbergstraße are particularly affected. This development is worrying not only for nature, but also for the health of citizens, such as Mercury reported.

The city of Bamberg has already taken preventive measures and is warning its citizens about the potentially dangerous insects with informative signs. Be careful! The caterpillars' stinging hairs can irritate the skin and mucous membranes and contain the allergy-causing nettle toxin thaumetopoein from the third larval instar. Symptoms of contact include itching, skin inflammation, hives, difficulty breathing and, in the worst case, allergic reactions. The city advises you to keep your distance from the nests and, if in doubt, have them removed by experts.

Health risks caused by the oak processionary moth

The health risks are not just limited to humans. Pets can also develop health problems if they come into contact with the stinging hairs. Particular caution is required when working in affected areas. Protective clothing is an absolute must, and if you have any health problems, you should consult a doctor quickly. These precautions are essential to protect yourself from the unpleasant consequences that come with contact with these caterpillars, such as Mirror notes.

The fight is carried out using a combination of different methods. The city of Bamberg is using asbestos vacuum cleaners and biodegradable glue to effectively eliminate the pests. These measures are necessary because the mass reproduction of the oak processionary moth is observed in several German federal states, particularly in the northeast and southwest, as well as in parts of North Rhine-Westphalia. But a decline in populations in certain regions is already evident, so that Federal Environment Agency.

Precautions and control strategies

The measures recommended by the Federal Environment Agency not only include thorough education of the population, but also concrete steps to combat it, which must be strictly observed. This includes avoiding nests and the necessary consideration for animal species and nature as a whole. Insecticides can be used in exceptional cases, but out of consideration for the environment these measures are the last resort.

The oak processionary moth is a topic that concerns us all. The city of Bamberg is taking the situation seriously and is taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety of citizens and their four-legged friends. Stay vigilant, avoid affected areas and keep yourself informed about current developments. Together we can stop the spread of this dangerous butterfly!