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Date Published: 08/04/2025

Cartagena ramps up action against harmful pine processionary caterpillars

Thousands of trees treated as the council works to keep green spaces safe and pest-free

Cartagena City Council is stepping up its efforts this season to tackle the pine processionary caterpillar, a pest known to be harmful to both animals and people. Targeted treatments have been carried out across the municipality, focusing on pine trees in areas managed by the council.

In total, 3,251 trees have been treated so far, using a mix of endotherapy and hands-on nest removal. Endotherapy is a method where protective treatment is injected straight into the tree’s system, helping to stop the pest in its tracks without posing a risk to people, pets or the environment.

The work mainly took place during the autumn and winter months – widely considered the best time to deal with this pest – and was supported by manual nest removal using baskets to clear visible infestation.

The council has also explained that caterpillars seen in some areas may be in places not managed by them, such as private land or spaces looked after by other authorities. While they can’t act in those spots, they’ve confirmed that all trees under their care have been treated as needed.

This latest campaign builds on action earlier in the year, when the caterpillars started appearing much earlier than usual thanks to an unusually warm winter. In response, other local areas like Camposol began preventative spraying and treatments as early as January.

City officials say these efforts reflect their ongoing commitment to protecting green spaces and keeping public areas safe for everyone. With more people out and about in the warmer months, the goal is to make sure parks and open spaces can be enjoyed without worry.

Locals are being encouraged to stay alert, especially dog owners, as the hairs of the processionary caterpillar can trigger serious allergic reactions in both humans and animals.

Image: Anthony 🙂/Pexels

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