In the Netherlands, paintball guns are used to combat the oak scrub moth, which threatens both trees and human health in forested areas.
With a paintball gun, a substance that attracts male moths is sprayed, preventing them from mating with females.
Oak moths, which have been seen extensively in forest areas in the Netherlands in recent years, have become a serious problem for both nature and public health due to their venomous stings.
People walking or cycling in forest areas face various skin problems.
Moths also cause serious damage to trees.
HOW IS IT FIGHTED?
The new fighting method, developed by Swedish scientists and implemented by 10 different municipalities, is carried out with a paintball gun.
According to Dutch media, a substance that female moths emit to attract males is sprayed onto trees with a paintball gun.
While males follow this tempting scent, females do not approach that area.
According to Swedish researchers, fewer female moths come to these trees because many competitors think they are already active.
Thus, oak purse moths are prevented from mating and their numbers are reduced.
According to tree technical consultant Henry Kuppen, the method used has no adverse effects on other plant and animal species.
Stating that the squeezed substance is perceived only by the male oak moth, the Dutch expert said that no other creature is disturbed.
Whether the new method has the desired effect will be determined in the summer of next year.