A comprehensive strategy and a central public authority are needed to effectively combat the spread of the oak processionary moth in Denmark, according to Hans Peter Ravn, associate professor emeritus at the University of Copenhagen. The caterpillar, known for its poisonous stinging hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions, has been detected in several municipalities, including Odense, Kerteminde, and Horsens.

Ravn suggests the caterpillars likely arrived in Denmark via imported oak trees, as the females do not fly far. He emphasizes that the current approach, where individual municipalities are responsible for controlling the caterpillar’s nests, is insufficient.

While the oak processionary moth is native to Central and Southern Europe and not considered an invasive species in the EU, it has been spreading northwards in recent years.

To effectively manage and potentially eradicate the oak processionary moth, Ravn proposes implementing special rules for the import of oak trees. He suggests requiring exporters to provide plant passports guaranteeing that the trees are free of the moths, with inspections conducted by plant inspectors in Denmark. Ravn believes that a unified public authority would ensure the most effective methods are used at the optimal time, maximizing the impact of control efforts.