German cities Koblenz and Barum report low oak processionary moth activity

In Koblenz, municipal tree inspectors found that this year the oak processionary moth (Eichenprozessionsspinner) infestation remained at a comparatively low level. Nests were detected on about 13 % of the registered oaks, affecting 208 trees, and the identified webs were removed promptly by specialist firms. City tree manager Stephan Dally said the situation is stable and well below infestation levels seen in other German regions, attributing the lower spread partly to the lack of large, contiguous oak stands in the city.

The neighboring municipality of Barum in Lower Saxony issued a public advisory outlining the health risks posed by the moth’s toxic hairs, which can cause skin irritation, eye inflammation and respiratory problems, especially for children, the elderly and allergy sufferers. Residents are urged to keep distance from infested trees, report sightings to the local administration, and follow hygiene measures after contact. Barum plans systematic removal of nests in public areas such as schools and playgrounds starting in July 2026.