Beijing Wildlife Park Organizes Caterpillar Hunt During Golden Week

The Beijing Wildlife Park has transformed a typical Golden Week holiday into an unusual hunt for fall webworm larvae, an invasive species nicknamed the 'forest food monster.' The park encouraged visitors to catch as many caterpillars as possible, with prizes like free park tickets awarded to those with the heaviest catches. Participants were provided with gloves, containers, and chopsticks to collect the caterpillars, which can damage over 300 plant species, including crops and fruit trees.

Since the competition began on September 28, 2026, about 2,077 people have caught more than 310,000 caterpillars, weighing a combined 47.65kg. The fall webworm is a significant pest in China, producing three generations a year. Beijing is currently facing peak damage from the third generation of larvae this year, according to China's Xinhua news agency.

A 35-year-old participant surnamed Cui noted the abundance of larvae and expressed support for the park's initiative, stating it was both meaningful and engaging for children. The activity has sparked interest among visitors, combining environmental conservation with a fun, rewarding experience.