2011 has seen the pine processionary caterpillars reach a 3-4 yearly peak

[Tinkerbell]

The Sierra Nevada National Park authorities are asking for this information to be shared.

Pine processionary caterpillars reach a peak every 3 to 4 years and 2011 has seen that peak. Beware when going out in pine forests. A group were walking Ragua-Aldeire in the Sierra Nevada, 5 ended up in hospital for treatment having come into contact with the nests or caterpillars.

More information on these caterpillars can be found here which includes a link to a spreadsheet showing where the caterpillars are at their worst. You will notice from the spreadsheet that the Sierra Nevada's southern slopes above Lanjaron are at a level 3 with 4 being the worst.

Take care out there in those forests