Mediterranean pine processionary moth
Thaumetopoea pityocampa
- Group
- Stinging-hair caterpillar
- Risk
- Very high danger
- Protection status
- Not protected
- Identifying features
-
- Caterpillar closely resembles the oak processionary moth
- Infests pines rather than oaks
- Found mainly around Lake Geneva, in Valais and in Ticino
- Adult moths on the wing from May onwards
- Microscopic urticating hairs with a high health risk
The Mediterranean pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) is the southern relative of the oak processionary moth and targets pines rather than oaks. In Switzerland it occurs above all in regions with a milder climate.
How to identify it
- Caterpillar: very similar to the oak processionary moth caterpillar, with irritant urticating hairs
- Host trees: infests pines, not oaks
- Distribution: mainly around Lake Geneva, in Valais and in Ticino
- Adult moth: on the wing from May onwards, then lays its eggs on conifers
Risk
Very high: as with the oak processionary moth, the microscopic urticating hairs cause skin irritation as well as eye and respiratory complaints on contact or when carried on the wind. Affected pine woodland and gardens should be avoided.
Protection status in Switzerland
The Mediterranean pine processionary moth is not protected by law in Switzerland.
What to do about an infestation
Because the urticating hairs are so hazardous, nests in pines should never be touched or removed yourself. We take care of safe, professional removal on site.