An original and biological method to control the proliferation of the pine processionary caterpillar is under development in the Albufeira municipality and involves the placing of blue tit nest boxes on trees.
These birds tend to feed off these caterpillars, which are known for destroying trees and causing skin allergies and respiratory problems to humans and animals.
With this method, the municipal authority hopes to stop the spread of the processionary caterpillar while still promoting biodiversity. The project will be carried out in association with experts from the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
“It is an innovative and environmentally conscious project which will allow us to control an extremely damaging plague. The project will also include a number of studies conducted by technicians from the municipal authority and the Ria Formos Natural Park,” said José Sequeira, councillor for the environment in Albufeira.
