The bastard satin caterpillar on Terschelling is increasingly common in the dunes and can cause nuisance in May, June and early July. This caterpillar is the larva of the bastaardsatijnvlinder (Euproctis chrysorrhoea) and lives mainly in bushes and trees such as buckthorn, hawthorn and oaks. It is good to take this into account during a bike ride, walk or beach day.

Bastard satin moth on Terschelling

The bastard satin caterpillar on Terschelling is mainly found in the dune areas and can cause nuisance in spring. The caterpillar arises from eggs that are deposited in packets and covered with fire hairs. The young caterpillars overwinter in spinning nests and become active in spring.

As the caterpillars grow, they develop recognisable orange dots on their backs and white stripes along their sides. At this stage, they also acquire burning hairs that can cause irritation when touched or spread by the wind.

When does the mongrel caterpillar cause nuisance?

Most nuisance from the mongrel satin caterpillar on Terschelling occurs between May and June. During this period, the caterpillars are in their final stage and have many burning hairs that are easily released. These hairs can be spread by the wind, so you can also get complaints without direct contact with the caterpillar.

Complaints caused by the mongrel satin caterpillar

Contact with the fire hairs of the mongrel satin caterpillar can cause various complaints. These include itching, skin irritation, red rashes and eye or respiratory irritation. The complaints are similar to those of the oak processionary caterpillar, but are usually less long-lasting. The hairs often stick to your clothes. Pay extra attention to this. Do not confuse them with bed mittens!

Where does the mongoose caterpillar occur on Terschelling?

On Terschelling, the mongrel satin moth is found mainly in dune areas and in shrubs such as buckthorn. Trees such as oak and hawthorn are also favourite places. In some cases, these caterpillars can eat bushes completely bare.

Tips to avoid the bastard satin caterpillar on Terschelling

To avoid complaints, it is important to be careful in areas where the mongrel satin caterpillar occurs on Terschelling. Do not touch caterpillars, spider nests and molting skins and stay on the paths as much as possible during walks. After a visit to the beach, the dunes or areas with lots of buckthorn, it is wise to pat out clothes, towels and other belongings. However, you can also get hair on your clothes due to the wind.

Do not kick caterpillars to death. This may actually release extra fire hairs that are spread by the wind. If you did come into contact with burning hairs, rinse the skin with water and put on clean clothes to prevent further irritation.

Enjoy Terschelling without nuisance

With a little vigilance, just keep enjoying the beautiful beaches, vast dunes, nature reserves and tranquillity the island is known for. Some people are more sensitive than others to this phenomenon.

Are you looking for holiday accommodation on Terschelling? Then check out stay overnight on Terschelling for a carefree stay. Want to know what's on offer on the island? Then discover the best activities on Terschelling .

For more information about fire hairs, health complaints and current advice, visit the website of the RIVM.