Pine processionary caterpillars pose a threat in Istanbul's parks
The pine processionary caterpillar, which has appeared in Sancaktepe and is rapidly spreading to the city center, is endangering human health and pets. Experts warn that their toxic hairs can lead to serious allergic reactions and fatal complications in animals.
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It is reported that pine processionary caterpillars observed in Istanbul's Sancaktepe district are threatening both natural life and city residents. These caterpillars, which begin to descend from trees to the ground especially in March and April, negatively affect the health of forests by eating the pine needles of pine trees. Moving in groups and forming "processions," the caterpillars have spread to parks and gardens in the city center.
Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Çetin, a faculty member at Akdeniz University's Faculty of Science, stated that the microscopic hairs on pine processionary caterpillars pose a major risk to both humans and animals. Prof. Dr. Çetin emphasized that curious cats and dogs, in particular, could face serious health problems if they come into contact with the caterpillars, and issued the following warning:
"Animals sometimes get curious about these caterpillars and may take them into their mouths. In such a case, a dog's tongue may swell, tissue necrosis may begin, and the respiratory tract may become blocked, creating a life-threatening risk. It is of vital importance that our citizens keep their animals away from these areas."
Not only through contact, but the caterpillars' allergic hairs, which are carried by the wind, can also cause intense itching, skin rashes, and irritation in humans. Experts recommend that those having picnics and children, in particular, be careful under pine trees.
To prevent their proliferation, the General Directorate of Forestry and municipalities have turned to biological control. Predator insect species called Calosoma, produced in laboratory environments, are being released into nature to keep the caterpillar population under control. It is stated that the presence of an average of 300 larvae in a single pine processionary caterpillar nest necessitates that precautions be maintained meticulously.
It has been reported that control efforts have been tightened following the sighting of the caterpillars, particularly in school gardens, parks, and recreational areas. Authorities advise citizens never to touch any suspicious white silky nests or caterpillar chains they encounter, to keep their pets away from the area, and to notify the relevant institutions.