Beware the Pine Processionary – The Fluffy but Fierce Foe! 🌲
Walking through Barcelona, you spot weird cotton ball nests in the pines. Cute? Nope. Not Santa’s forgotten decorations, but the homes of the pine processionary caterpillar – a deceptively fuzzy mini-monster! 😱
❗ Why should you care?
These “furry snakes” are covered in thousands of invisible venomous hairs, causing itching, allergies, and instant regret for anyone who touches them. Dogs and kids are prime targets – one curious sniff, and your park stroll turns into a vet or doctor visit! 🏥🐶
🚨 How to stay safe?
🔹 Hands off! These fluffballs are more toxic than your ex.
🔹 Keep dogs on a leash – let them sniff flowers, not danger noodles.
🔹 See a caterpillar parade? This is not a Disney moment – it’s an invasion! 🚷
🌿 How does the city fight back?
Barcelona’s eco-warriors use safe methods:
✔ Setting butterfly traps (like Tinder, but they don’t swipe right). 🦋
✔ Treating trees in kids’ playgrounds and dog parks.
✔ December: Mission: Impossible-style nest removal – with cherry pickers and hazmat suits. 👨🚀
If you have pines on your property, check them in winter and set special traps. If you see an outbreak, call the professionals before your garden turns into a caterpillar festival.
💚 Stay safe, protect your pups, and keep Barcelona’s parks green! 🌳
