THE highly unusual weather registered in the Valencia region this winter, with temperatures several degrees above normal levels, have created the ideal conditions for numerous pests and plagues that have now begun affecting urban areas.
Insects and rodents are the most numerous offenders, with invasions of cockroaches, rats, woodworm and the dreaded ‘processionary’ caterpillars – potentially fatal to animals and hazardous for humans – reported throughout the region.
The situation has led private homeowners and local councils to bring forward and increase the pest-control campaign in order to stem their spread.
All three provinces are affected, with the unwanted visitors even appearing on urbanisations and in public parks in many towns.
Experts warn that only the arrival of the cold weather will effectively reduce the presence of these invaders.
