The Forestry Commission is urging everyone to be on the lookout for oak processionary moth caterpillars as hatching season begins.
We are currently entering the “greatest risk period” as of May 28. These pests strip trees and affect people too.
The public have been warned not to touch the caterpillars uner any circumstances. People must also avoid touching or disposing of the nests themselves.
Coming into contact with the caterpillars’ distinctive white hairs or their nests can cause painful rashes and irritate the eyes and throat.
If you spot some of these creatures it’s best to keep your distance and report it to authorities via the TreeAlert portal. They are predominantly seen in South East England.
Forestry Commission Oak Processionary Moth Programme Manager Dr Edward Straw opened up about the issue.
He said: “We’re already receiving reports of homeowners being affected by the caterpillars, coming out in painful rashes, and it is important those living and working in areas affected by oak processionary moth remain vigilant about the health risks they pose.”
Professor Nicola Spence, UK Chief Plant Health Officer also warned the public.
She said: “I would advise that members of the public living in London, the surrounding areas and Derbyshire, avoid any contact with the caterpillar and its nests, as this can cause irritation.
“Oak trees are an iconic and much-loved part of our British landscape. By reporting any sightings of the oak processionary moth to the Forestry Commission, we can all minimise the pest’s spread as well as reduce their impact on tree health.”
The caterpillars get their name as they travel head-to-toe in fluffy lines up the trunk of oak trees, occasionally even forming an arrow shape on the bark.
They feed on leaves, impacting the growth of oak trees and leaving it vulnerable to stresses like drought and disease.
The oak processionary moth is not native to the UK. It was first spotted in London in 2006 after being accidentally transported from Europe in trees.
In recent years, it has begun spreading across England, infecting areas previously thought to be free of the pest just last July.
The warmer weather this spring has seen the moths growing quicker than previous years, bringing the highest risk periods for both trees and humans closer.
