Oak processionary moth spreads across Denmark

Danish authorities are warning of a rapid national spread of the oak processionary moth, known locally as “larven fra helvede” (the larva from hell), after new infestations were confirmed in multiple regions.

Recent sightings include Mors, Amager, and several locations in Nyborg Municipality, according to a report by DR. In Kerteminde, a neighboring municipality to Odense—the current epicenter—special worker Claus Conradsen from the local Park and Vej department discovered another nest two weeks ago.

“We have to tell people: ‘Dear citizens, do not go in there,'” Conradsen said, noting that his team follows the same precautions as Odense and other affected countries. The larvae, which have microscopic hairs causing severe irritation in humans and animals, were first observed in southern Kerteminde two summers ago, then in Munkebo in April, and now in the town center.

Kerteminde Municipality has called an emergency public meeting this afternoon in Munkebo to address concerns. Mayor Michael Nielsen (K) acknowledged the situation in Odense—where the infestation has “exploded”—and stressed the need for preventive action.

“Odense is like the eye of the storm, and we are in its slipstream,” Nielsen said. “We want to equip people with knowledge about the risks and what we are doing to contain it.”

Resident Elisabeth Hammersholt Jensen discovered a nest near Nymarksskolen last week. Initially mistaking the larvae for spiders, she welcomed the quick cordoning off of the area, as the site is frequented by children, cyclists, and dog walkers.

Conradsen, who has mapped oak trees across the municipality, has reported six nests in the past two days alone. Each discovery is logged via an app, with photos and descriptions, before external specialists in protective gear remove the nests.

“It may be a regional problem now, but it will soon become a national one,” he warned, expressing concern for Denmark’s old oak trees. “We are doing what we can to limit the spread.”

The oak processionary moth is a night-flying species whose larvae build communal nests in oak trees. Their shed hairs can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, and respiratory issues in humans and animals, with symptoms resembling those from stinging nettles or jellyfish.