Caterpillars on Gotland: County board issues warning

Thousands of pine processionary moth caterpillars have appeared near a wind turbine on Gotland, Sweden, prompting a warning from the county administrative board. The caterpillars' barbed hairs can cause itching and rashes in humans and pose a danger to dogs.

Mattias Westerberg, who discovered the caterpillars, urged neighbors to avoid the area. "I probably won't go for that walk anymore, and I will also tell my neighbors to avoid that route," he told helagotland.se. He noted that the caterpillars can shoot their hairs like projectiles when they feel threatened, causing them to embed in skin, mucous membranes, and airways.

Individuals who come into contact with the hairs are advised to wash themselves or their dogs thoroughly with water, without rubbing with a towel. The species is similar to the oak processionary moth, which has been found in Denmark. The discovery has raised concerns about potential health risks for residents and their pets on the island.

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I probably won't go for that walk anymore, and I will also tell my neighbors to avoid that route.