Copenhagen begins removal of oak processionary moth larvae on Amager Fælled

Copenhagen Municipality will begin removing oak processionary moth larvae and their irritating hairs from trees along Artillerivej on Amager Fælled this afternoon, reports DR.

The larvae were discovered a week ago in 40 trees across several parking areas along the road. Removal will be carried out using a vacuum with a telescopic tube and a special filter designed to suck up both larvae and hairs.

Claus Schultz, technical director at Rentokil Pest Control, which is handling the operation, said the method is effective but not foolproof.

“We’re not naive. We know some may remain after we finish. But by removing as many as we can now, we can significantly reduce the problem next year,” Schultz said. He added that if left unchecked, the infestation would grow.

DR reports that neither Copenhagen Municipality nor climate, environment, and technical affairs mayor Line Barfoed were available for comment due to holiday leave.

The oak processionary moth has been spreading in Denmark, with recent sightings on Funen, the island of Mors, and now Amager. In response, the government has created a new information page on the website of the Agency for Green Transition and Water Environment, offering guidance on what to do if the caterpillars are encountered.