Plague returns to threaten the city of Braunschweig once more!
Heyo! Spring's here and it's high time to enjoy the blooming colors of Braunschweig. But don't forget to keep an eye out for a tucked-away danger lurking in the warm season - the oak processionary caterpillars!
Watch Out for the Venomous Crawlers of Braunschweig!
These nocturnal little suckers love to party from May to late July or early August, mostly on oaks, as warned by the city. So, what's the big deal about these black, gray, and brown larvae?
As they grow, these critters develop these itchy, venomous hairs from their third larval stage. Catch 'em moving, and you'll be dealing with skin rashes, redness, eye infections, sore throat, coughing, and even asthma attacks, according to the city. Yikes!
The City Strikes Back Against the Creepy Caterpillars
Nobody wants a vacation from the sneeze-and-itch club, right? So, the city's on a mission to keep these tiny yet potentially harmful creatures at bay, especially around schools, playgrounds, hospitals, and other sensitive spots. Their nests are promptly removed within a 24-hour window in sensitive areas, and within 48-hours in residential areas.
In areas hit hardest by caterpillar invasions in the first half of May, the city will try to tame them with nematodes that make these larvae harmless. But remember, the battle against these little critters ain't always winnable, so keep an eye out for warning signs and avoid cordoned-off areas like a boss. And the golden rule? Don't even think about giving these caterpillars a high-five!
Report Suspicious Oak Trees!
If you think your oak tree is going to turn into a caterpillar nursery, drop a line to the City of Braunschweig at 0531/470-1 and 0531/115, or shoot them an email at "[email protected]". Just make sure to report affected oak trees only - other trees are safe. Also, keep in mind that not all caterpillars in trees are harmful, so don't freak out over harmless caterpillars or case-bearers, dude!
Stay safe out there and let's enjoy the summer without a side of rashes and sneezes!
Science alerts us to the venomous threat posed by oak processionary caterpillars in the health-and-wellness sector. Environmental-science experts recommend one must be vigilant during the caterpillars' active season, which is from May to late July or early August, to avoid skin rashes, eye infections, and respiratory issues.
