Denmark tackles oak processionary moth larvae outbreak in Fyn and Zealand

In Denmark, an outbreak of oak processionary moth (Egeprocessionsspinderen) larvae is affecting oak trees in both the Fyn and Zealand regions. The caterpillars are covered with irritating hairs that can cause severe skin reactions, prompting health warnings for the public. On Fyn, municipal technicians are spraying and suction‑removing the larvae while wearing protective suits and respirators. Odense Kommune has earmarked between 500,000 and 700,000 Danish kroner for the control programme beginning in 2026.

On Zealand, the same invasive larvae have moved into privet hedges, defoliating them despite attempts with chemicals and manual removal. Frustrated garden owners have begun cutting down affected hedges with chainsaws; one resident reports that five of his seven hedges have already been felled. Authorities continue to advise residents to keep a distance from the insects and let professionals handle eradication.