Gypsy moth caterpillar infestation escalates at Kaadedhdhoo Airport

Videos and images of a large infestation of gypsy moth caterpillars (Huvani) at Gaafu Dhaalu atoll Kaadedhdhoo Airport have been widely circulated on social media.

An airport employee shared photos showing various parts of the island covered in caterpillars, including the children’s park, the canteen, and the passenger terminal.

While the children’s park remains open, it is heavily infested, the employee said.

According to the employee, the infestation has been ongoing for over a month but has intensified in recent days.

The post tagging the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, and Villa Airlines, which operates the airport, has gained significant attention online.

Gypsy moth caterpillars have fine hair-like bristles that can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms vary from mild skin irritation to more severe responses, depending on individual sensitivity.

Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has said that it is investigating the issue.

This is a common time for gypsy moth caterpillar infestations in the Maldives as well as other island nations in the region.