Ecological control of the oakprocessionary caterpillar (Thaumetopoea processionea) as a non-chemical solution.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

BACKGROUND

The oak processionary (Thaumetopoea processionea) is a moth associated with oak trees, whose caterpillar develops poisonous hairs. Direct contact with the species hairs causes inflammation in humans and animals, as well as allergic reactions that could lead to anaphylactic shock. The hairs also cause severe defoliation in oaks and reduce biodiversity by out-competing other caterpillar species.

Currently, the oak processionary is widely combated by the use of pesticides. However, the pesticide BTK, which is the one mainly used in Belgium and the Netherlands, is not a permitted pesticide in the EU, although temporary permits are issued by both national governments. Pesticides used in other European countries have a greater impact human health and the environment than BTK.

Other methods of fighting the moth species include burning and sucking out their nests, but techniques are very expensive and labour intensive; every tree has to be treated individually, incurring serious health risks for workers.

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of the LIFE oak processionary project is to reduce the amount of biocides used in the target regions: North Brabant, Limburg and Gelderland in the Netherlands and Antwerp and Limburg in Belgium.

Three ecological strategies will be developed for controlling the species: 1. Increasing the predation by birds, such as great and blue tit, by providing nest boxes; 2. Roadside management aiming to increase the occurrence of natural predators, such as wasps, flies and predatory beetles; and 3. Reintroduction of the forest caterpillar hunter.

Not all these methods are applicable in each location. The aim is to develop a decision tool that help policymakers and field practitioners the right method for the area.

The LIFE oak processionary project focusses mainly on the LIFE environment topic, Reduction of the impact on the environment or human health of biocidal products or pesticides by substitution with non-chemical solutions.

RESULTS

Expected results:

Reduction of biocide use by 50% compared to the baseline in the project area;

Increased predation by birds: - 50% decrease of the number of caterpillars - Installation of at least 3 000 nest boxes by local municipalities and citizens, not involved as partners in the project

Number of nests subject to parasites and of the level of such activity in the ecologically managed roadsides 80% higher than in nests on other roadsides;

Increased predation by the forest caterpillar hunter (Calosoma sycophanta) through: - Sustainable reintroduction - 50% decrease of the number of oaky processionary caterpillars

Development of guidelines; and

Training of 130 local municipalities in Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany along with 30 companies.