Oak processionary caterpillars spread in Odense as city scales back control efforts

The oak processionary caterpillar, known in Denmark as “the larva from hell,” is spreading in Odense this summer, but the city has significantly reduced its eradication efforts, acknowledging the pest is now impossible to eliminate completely, DR reports.

Odense Municipality will remove the caterpillars only from municipal areas and high-traffic locations such as schools and light rail stations, according to Martin Pedersen, head of office at the municipality. Warning signs have been posted where the caterpillars are present, advising the public to avoid contact until they transform into harmless moths.

Last year, the city spent 2 million kroner combating the species, which inhabits oak trees and develops toxic hairs in its final three larval stages. This year, the budget is approximately 700,000 kroner. Pedersen noted the municipality currently receives five to ten daily reports from residents, along with around 300 tips via an app for reporting sightings.

Local resident Karina Paramonova said she is far less alarmed by the caterpillars this year. “I’ve barely noticed them. I just avoid them and think that soon they’ll be moths. We have to learn to live with them,” she told DR, adding that last year’s reaction may have been overly panicked due to the species being new to the area.

The caterpillars have also been found in other Funen towns, including Munkebo.