Toxic caterpillar spreads across Odense, prompting closures and protest

A toxic caterpillar known locally as the “larva from hell” has forced the closure of playgrounds, a daycare, and a recycling station in Odense after residents reported rashes and itching, Danish broadcaster DR reports.

Odense Municipality has warned against using selected sidewalks and bike paths as the caterpillar spreads more widely than initially expected. Authorities have concluded eradication is impossible and are now focusing on limiting its spread, particularly in high-traffic areas such as schools and daycare centers.

A local citizens’ network has announced a protest outside Odense City Hall on Saturday at 11:00 in response to the municipality’s handling of the outbreak. The caterpillar causes allergic reactions by shedding hairs when threatened.