Odense Municipality Calls Public Meeting Over Toxic Caterpillars Causing City Problems

Odense Municipality is inviting residents to a public meeting Friday to discuss the oak processionary moth caterpillar, which is causing significant issues in parts of the city. The meeting, scheduled for 3:30 PM at the Odense Congress Center, will offer 1,000 seats for attendees to ask questions on a first-come, first-served basis.

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On the meeting, there will be an opportunity to ask questions. There are 1000 seats. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The toxic caterpillars have caused rashes and itching among residents, prompting the municipality to advise against using certain sidewalks and bike paths. However, local citizens are dissatisfied with the authorities' response to the "caterpillar from hell," as it's colloquially known due to the irritation its hairs cause.

A local citizens' network plans to demonstrate in front of Odense City Hall on Saturday, July 4th, at 11:00 AM. The police have confirmed receipt of a notification for this demonstration.

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The municipality is doing everything they can to limit the spread of the caterpillar.

Odense Mayor Peter Rahbæk Juel stated on Facebook that the municipality is doing everything possible to curb the spread. He mentioned that two companies are working at full capacity to combat the caterpillars, and a third company has been contracted to join the effort. Specific paths like Lindved Åstien, Tornbjergstien, and Kohavestien are currently off-limits. Previously, Børnehuset Ørbækparken, a daycare center, had to temporarily close after several children experienced itching and rashes from the caterpillars.

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The municipality has two companies that can specifically combat the caterpillar, and they are operating at maximum capacity.