The Pine Processionary Caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) is not just a forest pest; it is a major public health issue in Costa Cálida. Its urticating hairs can cause severe allergic reactions in children and adults, and most alarmingly: they can be fatal to pets (dogs and cats) within hours due to asphyxia or tongue necrosis.
At Servinmosol, we hold the ROPO certification (Official Register of Producers and Operators) to apply advanced phytosanitary treatments that eliminate the infestation without risking the health of residents.
Endotherapy: The Clean and Effective Solution
Traditional aerial spraying is increasingly restricted in urban areas. Therefore, we specialize in Plant Endotherapy.
This technique involves injecting the treatment directly into the pine tree's vascular system (trunk) at low pressure.
- Total Safety: Since there is no spraying involved, there is absolutely no risk to people, children, or pets playing under the tree. It is harmless to the surrounding environment.
- Long-Lasting Efficiency: The product distributes throughout the tree, reaching the needles that caterpillars eat, eliminating them before they can even form the dangerous nests.
- Wildlife Friendly: It only affects the caterpillars feeding on the pine, leaving birds and beneficial insects unharmed.
The Biological Cycle: When to Act
Success depends entirely on timing. Applying the same method in August as in February is useless. We adapt our strategy to the season:
🍂 Autumn (Prevention - The Best Time)
This is the optimal time for Endotherapy (October - January). We target the caterpillars in their early larval stages, when they are tiny and vulnerable, preventing them from forming the characteristic white winter nests.
❄️ Winter/Spring (Shock Treatment)
If visible nests are already present, the caterpillars are preparing to descend. Here we perform mechanical nest removal (high pruning) and install trunk trap rings that catch the caterpillars as they climb down to bury themselves in the soil.
If you see caterpillars in a procession (line) on the ground, NEVER step on them or sweep them, as this releases toxic hairs into the air. Keep your dog far away and call us immediately for safe removal. If your dog touches one, rush to a vet immediately.
Integral Management for Communities
For urbanizations with large pine areas, we carry out comprehensive management plans that include monitoring with pheromone traps in summer (to catch male moths and prevent breeding) and curative treatments in winter. We issue the mandatory treatment certificate for the community's maintenance logbook.