Volunteer day on the box tree moth in the Cingles de l’Avenc de Tavertet

The box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) is an extremely invasive species which reached Europe from Asia and is seriously affecting ecosystems due to its capacity to defoliate the box tree, a very common shrub in our forests.

On Saturday 1 June, the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation held a workshop as part of Nature Week so that all volunteers could learn firsthand about how the box tree moth is affecting the environment around the Cingles de l’Avenc de Tavertet and what measures the Foundation is taking to combat it. Everyone will also help out by making a nest-box for certain birds and bats that could prey on the moth. 

On Wednesday 5 June, another volunteer workshop will be held in Congost de Mont-rebei to rebuild dry stone walls. Dry stone constructions, which are created around nature, have enormous historical and cultural value and reveal the close relationship between humans and the natural world. Yet they also generate rich ecosystems for many animal and plant species.

With these activities, the Catalunya La Pedrera Foundation is working to preserve the natural heritage as well as raise awareness and provide environmental education.