The Pine Processionary Caterpillar

While the pine processionary caterpillar has been in the news more frequently lately, it shouldn’t ruin your hiking fun. With the right knowledge and a bit of extra caution, you can still safely enjoy a beautiful hike in nature.

Awareness is Key

The greatest risk comes from a lack of awareness. When you know what to look for, direct contact is easy to avoid. These caterpillars are primarily active between January and May.

• Hikes can go on as usual: There is no need to avoid the forests. Stick to the paths, keep your dog on a leash in pine-rich areas, and do not touch the characteristic white ‘nests’ in the trees.
• Look up and down: You will see the nests in the trees, but on the ground, you might see the caterpillars crossing the path in a long ‘procession’ (one after the other).

Usually Harmless, But Annoying

In the vast majority of cases, the impact on humans is limited to a mild skin reaction.

• Itchy bumps: If you come into contact with the stinging hairs, you will often get red, itchy bumps similar to a reaction from stinging nettles.
• Quick recovery: This irritation is usually harmless and typically disappears on its own within a few days to a week.
• Golden Rule: Do not scratch! By scratching, you spread the tiny hairs across your body and rub them deeper into the skin, which worsens the symptoms. For mild cases, a soothing gel (such as aloe vera or menthol) is often sufficient.

Take Extra Care with Your Dog

For our four-legged friends, the risk is unfortunately higher because they walk with their snouts close to the ground and may lick the caterpillars out of curiosity.

• Prevention: Keep your dog on a short leash when walking through a pine forest.
• If in doubt: Has your dog sniffed or licked a caterpillar? Rinse the mouth immediately with plenty of water and call the vet just to be safe. Quick action prevents serious damage, such as tissue loss on the tongue.