The Forestry Commission has today (Wednesday, May 29) urging the public to be vigilant for any sightings of the oak processionary moth caterpillars.
The tree pest, which is predominantly found in South East England, can strip oak tress of their foliage and leave them susceptible to disease.
Oak processionary moth project manager, Andrew Hoppit, said: “It is important those living and working in areas affected by oak processionary moth remain vigilant about the health risks they pose, when enjoying outdoor spaces, as we are entering the greatest risk period.
“The Forestry Commission has a whole host of information online that can be used to identify the moth, simply visit managing oak processionary moth in England.
“If you spot the pest, report the sighting via our TreeAlert portal.”
Alternatively, OPM sightings can be reported to the Forestry Commission via email – [email protected].
Oak processionary moth
The oak processionary moth (OPM) caterpillars descend down oak trees in head-to-tail processionary form and occasionally take the form of an arrow shape.
They feed on the leaves as they migrate causing the leaves to sometimes drop off which negatively impacts their growth.
This can weaken the tree and leave it more vulnerable to other stresses, such as drought and further diseases.
Oak processionary moth was first identified in London in 2006 after being accidentally transported over from Europe in trees for planting.
It has since spread to surrounding counties in the South East, and last July, a small outbreak of the caterpillars were found at a site designated free from the pest.
OPM caterpillars and their nests, which are made of distinctive white silken webbing, contain hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and should not be touched under any circumstances.
The nests can be found in the trunk or branches of Oak trees, and fade to a light brown over time, the public are urged never to try and dispose of the nests themselves.
UK chief plant health officer, Prof Nicola Spence, said: “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.
“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.”
Identifying OPM
The nest of OPM caterpillars are typically dome or teardrop-shaped, averaging the size of a tennis ball.
They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown.
The caterpillars have black heads and bodies covered in long white hairs which contain proteins which can cause itchy rashes, eye, and throat irritations.
They can also occasionally cause breathing difficulties in people and pets, so should not be touched under any circumstances.
