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ARCHIVED - Processionary caterpillar population boom in Spain
Climate change has created an ideal environment for the dangerous caterpillar in Spain
The pine processionary caterpillar is one of the main threats to forests throughout Spain and the dangerous pests keep pet owners on high alert during winter and early spring as they can be deadly to dogs and cats. An annual problem that is on the rise thanks to climate change, according to the experts.
High temperatures and drought conditions are contributing to the population boom, while the caterpillars are also expanding their territory. Until now, the processionary was limited to areas where Scots pine trees flourished, as they would die from the cold at higher altitudes. With rising temperatures, the adult moths are now choosing taller black pines to lay their cluster of eggs, leading to far higher numbers throughout Spain.
The higher the temperature, the more comfortable and active the caterpillars are, resulting in them eating far more and rapidly destroying forest land.
Catalonia has been especially hard hit, with around 114,000 hectares of trees now infested with the problematic pests.
Processionary caterpillars are very distinctive as they form a chain, nose to tail, as they leave the pine trees for the ground below. Hundreds of the creatures can be spotted in ‘processions’ on pavements and paths in wooded areas and can pose great danger to humans and animals alike.
Their bodies are covered in tiny spiky hairs which can easily become embedded in skin or the legs of animals. When humans come into contact with these hairs, they can experience reactions ranging from mild inflammation, irritation, respiratory distress to severe anaphylactic shock.
The hairs typically end up in the mouths of animals as they lick their irritated skin and can cause swelling and vomiting. Rapid veterinary treatment is essential for animals that have come into contact with the pine processionary caterpillar.
Image: Archive
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