Filenews 27 February 2025
The Department of Forests calls on the public to be particularly careful on Clean Monday, as it notes in its announcement that in some areas pine trees are infested by the pityocampi insect [processionary caterpillars].
The public should exercise extreme caution, the department said, urging them to avoid sitting under or near affected pine trees and avoid coming into contact with the insect's caterpillar. "Anyone who comes into contact with the insect caterpillar or its nests and has a skin problem should seek medical advice and care."
At the same time, the Department of Forests reminds that citizens when going out to forests and countryside, should avoid cutting or uprooting wildflowers and shrubs, since many of them are strictly protected, while some may be endemic and in danger of extinction.
The Department calls on citizens to respect the environment, appealing to keep the place they will visit clean. "We pick up all the rubbish we create and put it in the garbage cans or take it with us. If we even leave them in plastic bags, they will be scattered by stray dogs, cats and foxes."
It is also emphasized that lighting fires anywhere in the countryside is prohibited except for the preparation of food within the specially permitted and arranged areas located in organized picnic and camping areas. Lighting a fire within state forests or at a distance of 2km from its outskirts is an offense which, according to the Forest Law of 2012, is punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50.000,00 or both penalties.
Finally, the Department of Forests informs the public that in some areas pine trees are infested by the pityocampi insect. Citizens should be especially careful, avoid sitting under or near affected pine trees and avoid contacting the caterpillar or the insect. "Anyone who comes into contact with the insect caterpillar or its nests and has a skin problem should seek medical advice and care."
