27.01.2026 19:01
The white cotton-like pine processionary caterpillar that has emerged in the forests of Samsun is harmful to both humans and trees. The pine processionary caterpillar, which also poses a risk in urban areas, causes allergic reactions in humans upon contact.
The pine processionary moth, which has been increasingly observed on pine trees in Samsun in recent times, poses a threat to both the forest ecosystem and human health.
Especially in the pine forests along the Samsun-Ankara road, this pest, which draws attention with its white cotton-like bags, also poses a risk in urban areas.
"THEY CAN CAUSE ALLERGIC REACTIONS UPON CONTACT"
Prof. Dr. İzzet Akça, a faculty member of the Plant Protection Department at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), stated that the pine processionary moth causes serious damage by voraciously feeding on conifers, saying, "They voraciously eat the leaves of tree species we call conifers. They also cause damage in urban areas. They can cause allergic reactions upon contact in parks and living spaces of people."
"CHEMICAL CONTROL SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED IN THE FIRST STAGE; ECO-FRIENDLY METHODS SHOULD BE PREFERRED"
Emphasizing that the damage will increase if no precautions are taken, Akça said, "In June and July, butterflies emerge from the adults, mate, and lay their eggs in groups on needle leaves. They lay an average of 200 eggs. The larvae that hatch from the eggs feed on small leaves in the first stage, and allergic effects are not observed at this stage because they do not have hairs. Later, they weave bags and live in groups inside the bags. We are currently in this period of group presence. When they come into contact with humans in gardens or picnic areas, they cause allergies, and they damage plants by eating the leaves. Control should be carried out with an integrated perspective. First, the bags should be cut and collected for disposal. Chemical control should not be considered in the first stage; if necessary, eco-friendly methods should be preferred," he stated.
"GLOBAL WARMING PLAYS A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN ITS INCREASE"
Akça also pointed out that global warming is increasing insect populations, stating, "Climate change affects many living beings, and this effect is most evident in insects. In recent years, global warming has played a significant role in the increase of the pine processionary moth."