Current research
Minimising risk
Extensive research is being
undertaken into the ecology of
the Processionary caterpillars to
identify ways horses are exposed
to caterpillar hairs and to develop
strategies to allow broodmare
owners and managers to minimise
the risk of exposure.
Role of other hairy caterpillars
Ongoing research is i nvestigating
the role of other hairy caterpillars
as a cause of EAFL using a guinea
pig model. Many species carry very
similar setae!
Acknowledgements:
The research into Ochrogaster
lunifer and its role in abortion in
mares has been carried out by the
University of Queensland and was
supported by RIRDC and the Hunter
Valley Equine Research Foundation
and ongoing research into caterpillar
ecology through the Australian
Research Council and the Hunter
Valley Equine Research Foundation.
NOTE:
University of Queensland
researchers:
Judy Cawdell-Smith
[email protected] or
Julianne Farrell
[email protected]
Figure 9. Silk-like webbing leading between processionary caterpillar nests and their
feeding areas in the canopy. While trunk or ground nests may not be readily seen, the
webbing is an obvious indicator of an active nest at the tree.
July • August • 2017 • The Australian Quarter Horse Magazine • Page 21