Schwerin (dpa/mv) - From next Monday, the oak processionary moth in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania will again be fought from the air. Helicopters are scheduled to fly off Eichenalleen in the particularly affected district of Ludwigslust-Parchim on Monday and Tuesday and spray an insecticide, a district spokesman announced on Wednesday.
The affected road sections - all located outside of towns - would be closed to public traffic for about 20 minutes during the spraying. Livestock owners would have to bring their animals into the barn or ensure that they are at least 200 meters away. The low-flying helicopter could trigger escape reflexes.
According to the information, the preparation Foray ES, which is recommended by the Federal Environment Agency, is used to combat the oak processionary moth. It is non-toxic to humans and other vertebrates and only affects caterpillars. Bees and other insects are therefore not affected either.
The caterpillars of the moth have stinging hairs that can cause painful rashes, eye irritation and breathing difficulties, but also dizziness, drowsiness and allergic shock. You should therefore not touch the caterpillars - however, you can also come into contact with stinging hairs through drifts.
