Larvae of oak processionary moth found in Odense Zoo

A single nest of oak processionary moths has been discovered in Odense Zoo’s treetop attraction, forcing the closure of the 252-metre-long walkway 12 metres above ground. Zoo director Bjarne Klausen confirmed the find on Monday morning and said the attraction would remain closed while staff ensured no further larvae were present.

The nest was spotted by a routine safety inspector at a height of four metres in the attraction called “Bøgetoppen.” It has since been removed, and no guests have reported any irritation, Klausen told DR.

“We want to be on the safe side. Guests come to feel comfortable, and we cannot risk children getting stinging hairs on them,” Klausen said.

Visitors with children expressed understanding for the precaution. Lukas Dam Fischer, visiting from Horsens with his younger brother and father, said he supported the closure after learning about the risk.

“I’m a bit glad they closed it, because if someone climbed down and touched one, it wouldn’t be fun,” Fischer said.

Luna Polisi Hansen, who has visited “Bøgetoppen” many times, also supported the zoo’s decision. “It doesn’t matter. I understand why they’re doing it—no one should get infected,” she said.

The zoo expects “Bøgetoppen” to reopen to the public on Tuesday.