Several areas near schools and playgrounds closed after oak processionary moth discovery

Kerteminde Municipality has closed a playground and cordoned off two planted school areas following the discovery of the oak processionary moth, known colloquially as the “larva from hell,” DR reports.

The affected sites include DUI Leg og Virke playground in Munkebo, as well as tree-lined enclosures near Munkebo Skole and Marslev Skole. Authorities have deployed pest control teams to vacuum larvae from oak trees.

“We’ve blocked off the areas and sent in specialists to begin removal,” said Asbjørn Nyholt, operations manager for Park & Vej in Kerteminde Municipality. He noted that while the infestations near the schools are not severe, the municipality is taking a cautious approach, particularly to protect children.

“We’ll have to get used to the fact that the moth is here and learn to live with it,” Nyholt said. “The whole country has agreed we can’t eradicate them.”

The oak processionary moth’s larvae carry toxic hairs that can harm humans and animals. Residents who spot the pests are advised not to handle them but to contact professionals and notify their local municipality.