The caterpillar of the oak processionary moth.
The WSA Bingen warns against the caterpillars of the oak processionary moth. The pest has infested the oaks in some sections of the banks of the Rhine.
The following areas are Communication from the Bingen Waterways and Shipping Authority affected:
- Wiesbaden
- Rüdesheim
- Mainz
- Budenheim
- Heidesheim/Heidenfahrt
- Ingelheim
- Bingen
The Oak processionary moth is a species of butterfly whose caterpillars grow on oak trees. The caterpillars have fine poisonous hairs for their defence. These break off easily. Contact with the caterpillar or the fine hairs can cause severe allergic reactions to the skin, eyes and airways.
As the old larval skins remain in the nests after moulting, the abandoned nests also pose a danger. Until the pest has been removed by a specialised company, warning signs will be put up on the affected service roads as a precautionary measure. These routes should be avoided until further notice.
Christian Tiedt
Editor Travel
