The Pine Processionary Caterpillar (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) is a serious concern for homeowners and residents in the Algarve. These caterpillars pose significant health risks to children, pets, and even adults, making it essential to take preventive measures.

Understanding their dangers, seasonal activity, and how to protect your property is crucial—especially if you own a home or are considering investing in Portuguese real estate.

Why Are Processionary Caterpillars Dangerous?

The pine processionary (Thaumetopoea pityocampa)

The processionary caterpillar is named after its distinctive behavior of moving in long, head-to-tail lines. However, despite their seemingly harmless appearance, these caterpillars are extremely dangerous due to the toxic hairs covering their bodies.

Risks to Humans:

• Direct contact can cause severe skin rashes and irritation.
• Inhalation of airborne hairs may trigger respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
• If hairs come into contact with the eyes, they can lead to temporary or permanent vision damage.

Risks to Pets:

• Dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable, as they tend to sniff or bite at the caterpillars.
• Symptoms include excessive drooling, swelling of the mouth and tongue, vomiting, and severe pain.
• In extreme cases, contact with these caterpillars can result in necrosis of the tongue or even death if untreated.

Seasonal Awareness: When Are They Active?

In Portugal, the processionary caterpillars are most active from late winter to early spring (January to April). During this period, they descend from their silken nests in pine trees to the ground, where they move in processions to bury themselves for pupation.

If your property has pine trees, it is particularly important to monitor for signs of nests, which appear as large silk-like webs high up in the branches.

How to Protect Your Property and Loved Ones

1. Regular Property Inspections

• Check pine trees for nests (silky white cocoons), especially from December to March.
• Inspect outdoor areas where children and pets play.

2. Professional Removal of Nests

• Do not attempt to remove nests yourself, as disturbing them releases toxic hairs into the air.
• Contact professional pest control services to safely remove them.

3. Restrict Access to Infested Areas

• If you notice processionary caterpillars, keep pets and children away from the area.
• Use fencing or temporary barriers around pine trees where nests are present.

4. Garden and Landscape Management

• Regular pruning and maintenance of pine trees can help reduce caterpillar infestations.
• Removing excess pine needles and debris can also limit their spread.

👉 Thinking about buying property in Portugal?

At Immo Lusitania, we work with expert villa managers and professional gardeners who can help protect your home from processionary caterpillars and other hazards.

Contact us today to learn more!

The Importance of Property Management for Holiday Homes

If you own a holiday home in Portugal, professional property management is essential—not only for maintenance and rentals but also for protecting your garden, pets, and family from hazards like processionary caterpillars.

How Immo Lusitania Can Help:

✔️ Villa Management Services – We coordinate with experts to monitor and maintain your home year-round.
✔️ Pest Control Assistance – Our trusted partners provide safe and effective nest removal.
✔️ Professional Gardening Services – Routine care to minimize risks and maintain a safe environment.
✔️ Short and Long-Term Rental Management – Keeping your property secure and profitable when you’re away.

👉 Looking for expert property management or a new home in Portugal? Contact Immo Lusitania today!

Conclusion

The Pine Processionary Caterpillar is a serious but manageable issue in the Algarve. By staying informed, taking preventive action, and working with trusted professionals, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for your family and pets. If you’re investing in Portuguese real estate, Immo Lusitania provides expert property management and garden maintenance services to keep your home secure year-round.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Immo Lusitania is the real estate expert and has trusted partners who can assist with all aspects of moving to and investing in Portugal. We recommend consulting with legal and pest control professionals, and our team will help you find the appropriate experts to guide you through the process.