Oak processionary moth spreads across Swiss and German towns, prompting tree removals

Switzerland’s forest protection agency reports a sharp rise in oak processionary moth sightings nationwide, far exceeding previous years. The caterpillars damage oak trees and their fine hairs can cause skin irritation, eye problems and respiratory complaints in people and animals. Authorities advise the public to avoid touching nests or caterpillars, to rinse exposed skin, eyes or fur with plenty of water and to report infestations to forest or municipal services.

In the German municipality of Maihingen, four oak trees at the Utzwingen sports field have been confirmed infested. The local council debated removal options, noting that suction cleaning would cost about 900 CHF per tree and spraying only about 55 CHF, while biological control with nematodes would run roughly 170 CHF per tree each year. The council voted unanimously to fell the trees, a task the municipal works department will carry out in the autumn unless a permit for immediate felling is granted. The area around the pond has been fenced off in the meantime to protect residents from falling hairs.

Both communities are taking preventative actions to limit health risks and further spread of the moth.