Why is the processionary caterpillar dangerous?

It is about 4cm long, very hairy and moved along the ground in a group of more than one caterpillar in a precise single line, hence the nickname “processionary”. These insects are very dangerous because of the 500,000 highly urticating hairs (trichomes) that cover their body and which they shed if they feel threatened.

What do I do if I find an oak processionary moth?

If you see any oak processionary moths or caterpillars, you should report them immediately to the: Forestry Commission using the Tree Alert online pest reporting form. If you cannot use Tree Alert, report them by email at [email protected].

Is oak processionary moth an invasive species?

The Oak Processionary Moth (Thaumetopoea processionea) is an invasive species which has health implications to trees, humans and animals. Native to central and southern Europe, this pest has been identified in London and is breeding on oak trees in West and South London.

What do oak moths do?

As an insect native to California’s coastal regions, the oak moth may seem like a harmless natural part of the local ecosystem. However, large oak moth outbreaks can lead to severe defoliation of Coast Live Oak trees, potentially leaving these native trees severely weakened or even killing them.

What eats oak processionary?

In woods, where there are many species, the caterpillar hardly poses any problems. Birds too, are formidable enemies of the oak processionary. Cuckoos love them. And we keep discovering new natural enemies: a bug species, larvae of the green lacewing and larvae of the two-spotted lady beetle.

Are oak moths harmful?

Because defoliating outbreaks last usually only 1 or 2 years, oakworms rarely cause repeated defoliations that can severely harm or kill otherwise healthy trees. Even when tree health is not threatened, caterpillars and moths may become a nuisance when populations are high.

What eats the oak processionary moth?

OPM does have some natural enemies in its native range to include some species of birds, beetles, small mammals, and parasites.

Where did oak processionary moth come from?

Oak processionary moth is native to southern Europe that has become established in parts of London and its surrounds. Whilst it can defoliate oak trees the primary concern is the caterpillars hairs, these can cause irritation if in contact with human skin.

Where do oak processionary moths come from?

How do you stop oak processionary moths?

Do:

1. teach children not to touch or approach the nests or caterpillars;
2. train or restrain pets from touching or approaching them;
3. keep horses and livestock a safe distance from infested oak trees – cordoning off infested trees, covering and stabling can help;

What does the oak processionary moth look like?

Caterpillars in procession on the trunk nose-to-tail in late spring and early summer. The procession is sometimes arrow-shaped with one leader and rows of caterpillars following. Nests on trunks and larger branches of oak trees. They are made of distinctive white silken webbing that fades to a light brown colour.

Are oak moth caterpillars poisonous?

How dangerous are oak processionary moths? Put it simply, pretty dangerous, Small, sharp hairs covering the caterpillar’s entire body contain thaumetopoein, a toxin which, as well as potentially causing asthma attacks and vomiting, has also been known to result in dizziness, fever, and eye and throat irritations.