Control measures for the processionary caterpillar
We have already discussed about the problem that this insect creates mainly for pets and for children, we are going to discuss now the control measures which exist to stop this plague in this post.
There are physical, chemical and biological means. The chosen way usually depends on the number of trees and the forest stand affected.
Anyway, we must always act with the appropriate protective equipment and take the greatest possible precaution.
Physical mean
Remove and cut the infected branches and then proceed to stack and incinerate the larval population. We must take care when breaking the bags, since they must be well moistened/wet to reduce the maximum number of stinging hairs.
Chemical mean
Fumigation using insecticides to larval stages. It is recommended at early Autumn, before stinging hairs develop as they have a greater efficiency; due to the first larval stages, less harmful for the tree.
Biological mean
Pheromone traps are used to capture male caterpillars and thus we can stop the natural process of mating.
You can also install physical barriers at the foot of the trees or to an approximate height of 1.5 m from the ground.
Another option is to promote and protect the insectivorous birds in the region.