Municipalities across Denmark are mobilising against the oak processionary moth, a toxic caterpillar whose spread from the island of Funen to neighbouring areas has prompted urgent containment measures ahead of peak summer exposure.
Furesø municipality has halted tree imports from Funen, the Netherlands and Germany to prevent the larvae's arrival on Zealand, while its operations chief Gert Clausen urged residents not to transport oak branches from affected areas. On Funen, Nyborg municipality found the larvae in oak trees in three towns and hired contractors to remove them, and Odense has allocated 10 million kroner for a 14-team eradication effort using vacuums, coconut foam and controlled burning. Climate councillor Tim Vermund Andersen called the situation unacceptable.
The Danish Landscapers Association has warned the public against attempting DIY removal, noting that water jets or heat guns merely scatter the irritant hairs. Consultant Kasper Foldager said proper protective equipment equivalent to that used in asbestos work is required.