How to recognise them
Pine processionary caterpillar
A hairy caterpillar that lives in white silky nests at the tops of pine trees; at the end of winter it comes down to the ground in long lines.
Warning signs not to ignore
- White nests, like balls of cotton wool, at the tips of pine and cedar branches
- Lines of hairy caterpillars walking on the ground in late winter or spring
- Chewed pine needles and bare branches
Why they are a problem
- The stinging hairs cause severe irritation to skin, eyes and airways
- In dogs, contact with the mouth can cause serious injuries to the tongue: get to the vet straight away
- Affected trees get weaker year after year
How we work
- Tree inspectionWe count and map the nests on pines and cedars.
- Nest removalIn winter we cut down and destroy the nests safely, including at height.
- Preventive treatmentBetween late summer and autumn we treat the tree crowns to hit the young larvae.
- TrapsWhere useful we fit collar traps on the trunk to catch the caterpillars coming down.
Safety: we use only products authorised for professional use, in the right doses and places. When we finish, we leave you a job sheet listing the products used, the areas treated and what you should do next.
What you can do to prevent them
- Check your pines in late autumn and winter, when the nests are easy to see
- Never touch nests or caterpillars, not even with a stick
- In spring keep dogs and children away from the base of pine trees
Not sure what it is?
Send photos on WhatsApp
Send us a photo: we'll identify it and tell you what to do.
FAQ
When is the right time to act?
Nests are removed in winter; preventive treatments are done between late summer and autumn. If you call us now, we will suggest the right schedule.
What should I do if my dog touches a caterpillar?
Don't rub the area and take your dog to the vet straight away: it is an emergency.