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Jueves, 23 de enero 2025, 11:15
With the arrival of winter, the pine processionary (Thaumetopea pityocampa) begins its most visible activity, marking the start of a crucial phase for its control. This caterpillar, named for its characteristic marching in line, not only severely damages pines and cedars but also poses a risk to human and animal health. From Lokímica, a leading pest control company, the preventive campaign is being intensified to prevent this pest from wreaking havoc in our natural and urban environments.
"The pine processionary is much more than an aesthetic or forestry problem. Its urticating hairs can trigger severe allergic reactions in people and animals, even without direct contact," explained Lidia Nájar, a biologist at Lokímica. These tiny hairs, released by the caterpillars as a defense mechanism, can float in the air and cause irritations to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts.
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The processionary primarily affects pines, weakening the trees by feeding on their needles and making them more vulnerable to other diseases and pests. This phenomenon has a direct impact on biodiversity and landscape quality, as well as generating significant costs for administrations and private owners responsible for its control.
Lidia Nájar highlighted the need to act at the right time: "Winter is a key period for controlling the processionary. At this stage, the caterpillars are in the nests they build in the trees, which makes them easier to locate and eliminate." However, the biologist notes that "treatments against the processionary should be carried out throughout the year." In spring-summer, the work involves trapping for biological control, in autumn, endotherapy or spraying treatments to eliminate the caterpillar phase in early stages, and in winter, pruning of nests if they appear.
The company carries out various actions to combat the processionary. On one hand, there are biological treatments using pheromones and bioinsecticides that act selectively on the caterpillars, minimizing the impact on other species.
There is also mass trapping. This work involves the installation of specific traps to capture adults and reduce their reproduction. Additionally, there are selective prunings, where nests are removed. This action is carried out especially in urban areas or areas with high traffic.
Lokímica is committed to a sustainable approach in all its interventions. "Ecological balance is a priority. Therefore, we use methods that respect the environment and avoid the use of chemicals when not strictly necessary," stated Nájar. Furthermore, the company is investing in research to develop more effective and less invasive solutions against the processionary and other pests.
The company also reminds the importance of citizen collaboration to curb the spread of this pest. Garden and forest landowners must be vigilant for the appearance of nests in their trees and contact professionals at any suspicion. The biologist emphasized that "controlling the processionary is not just about protecting trees. It is a shared responsibility to preserve our health, our environment, and the natural balance."
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