Germany battles oak processionary moth outbreak, closes schools and sports fields

The oak processionary moth (Thaumetopoea processionea) has spread across Germany at an unprecedented rate, driven by unusually warm temperatures. The larvae’s toxic hairs cause skin irritation, rashes and respiratory problems for people and animals.

Authorities have closed dozens of schools, kindergartens and sports facilities in Berlin, Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, Hesse, Baden‑Württemberg and other regions. In Berlin‑Charlo‑tenburg‑Wilmersdorf, several sports arenas were shut until mid‑June, and three playgrounds in Spandau were barred. Nearby residents report that the hairs drift into homes, prompting a petition for a binding protection plan.

Local governments are deploying helicopters to spray biological insecticides over affected forests, as ground treatment is ineffective once the larvae are mature. Helicopter operations have been used in the Prignitz, Ludwigslust‑Parchim and other districts. The effort is costly, with municipalities spending hundreds of thousands of euros. Citizens can report nests via hotlines, and the Federal Environment Agency advises sealing windows and avoiding contact with contaminated foliage.