RARE CATERPILLAR DESTROYER.
Solomon Islands women prepare a sweet potato garden for planting. The rare pest has damaged similar food gardens. Photo credit: Radio Australia online.
A rare caterpillar species is reportedly destroying large food crop gardens in Sambora area, South East Vella La Vella, Western Province.
Community members were surprised by the unusual sight – damage of food crops.
An interview conducted by freelancer Alfred Pagepitu says a community elder of Sambora Mr Stanly Lilo says the caterpillar invasion was visible shortly after the recent Cyclone Raquel.
Mr Lilo says the rare caterpillar eats almost all their root crops and vegetables – especially around Sambora and surrounding communities.
The community elder also urges responsible Authorities to assist them protect their food gardens.
SIBC News understands people of Wainoni Bay in East Makira and Isabel Province have also reported the invasion of rare caterpillar species.