Forests in Alanya Are at Risk

Forests in Alanya at Risk: Poisonous Caterpillars Threaten People, Animals, and Trees

With the rise in temperatures, the number of pine processionary caterpillars (çam kese böceği) in Alanya has rapidly increased. The poisonous hairs on these insects can cause serious harm to both humans and animals. Authorities have issued warnings to the public to remain cautious.

These caterpillars release toxic dust from their hairs, which can trigger severe allergic reactions. Pet owners, in particular, are urged to be vigilant. Contact with these insects can cause serious symptoms in cats and dogs, including oral and tongue mucosal irritation, redness, swelling, tissue necrosis, muscle spasms, and even anaphylactic shock. Experts emphasize the importance of promptly consulting a veterinarian if contact occurs.

As part of the fight against these pests, the Alanya Forestry Directorate has released "gladiator beetles" into the forests—natural enemies of the caterpillars. This eco-friendly biological method helps control their population. Officials advise the public not to touch the insects and to seek medical or veterinary attention if exposure is suspected.

BEWARE OF PINE PROCESSIONARY CATERPILLARS

Soil scientist and forestry engineer Prof. Dr. Doğan Kantarcı explained: “Pine processionary caterpillars are among the harmful insects that live primarily on red pine trees and damage them. They feed on the fresh needles of pine trees during their larval stage and threaten the trees’ health over time. They overwinter in the soil as pupae and transform into moths in the spring. After laying eggs, the emerging larvae feed on fresh pine shoots and form silky nests where they continue living. The caterpillars move in lines, climb trees, and keep feeding. These pests require serious control efforts from forestry professionals.”

Previously, forestry workers would collect and destroy nests manually, but due to a lack of manpower, these methods are now insufficient. Climate change is accelerating their spread—once producing one generation per year, these pests can now produce two. Warmer winters speed up their life cycle. Chemical treatments are largely ineffective, as substances cannot penetrate the protective nests. Traditional methods such as burning or using diesel fuel are more effective but not scalable for widespread use. Although not a direct danger to human or animal life, these caterpillars can cause intense itching upon contact. They have few natural predators, so consistent control programs are needed. Early detection and destruction of lower-branch nests are crucial before they move to higher branches, where intervention becomes more difficult.

GLADIATOR BEETLES RELEASED INTO FORESTS

Alanya Forestry Director Bilal Yüksel stated: “We are releasing gladiator beetles into the forests as part of our efforts to combat the pine processionary caterpillar. We also use the ‘islet method’ to collect caterpillars and help increase the population of their natural enemies. This biological fight continues regularly during certain periods. While it’s not possible to completely eradicate the caterpillars, we are working to keep their numbers under control. Their population has increased with the warming weather, but as they will soon retreat into the soil, their visible presence will decrease. They do not dry out or kill the trees and only cause irritation in individuals with allergies.”