Nest of the Pine Processional Caterpillar

[rolf]

Wasn't sure what this was, about eight inches tall and many similar in the same conifer tree. Looked it up and found that these spun nests belong to the caterpillar of the Pine processional caterpillar, so named because of the way they form lines when moving around. They are also a bit of a menace, as they can kill young pine trees and are incredibly itchy when touched by humans or animals.

[Catherine]

What an amazing way to protect the young!

(There's an Oak version too, and it is a severe pest! Luckily we don't have any - yet!)