Deirdre O Meara 
The oak processionary moth caterpillars have become a serious problem across the UK, and Brits have been warned not to approach them. The Forestry Commission has issued an advisory, as the insects have been identified as a hazard to humans and animals. Oak processionary moth caterpillars have caused a number of issues in recent months, and their presence has spiked across parts of south-east England due to the vast woodland in the area. The pest feeds on oak tree leaves, disrupting growth and leaving the tree breed vulnerable to other pests, diseases, and drought. However, the species have become more feared for what they can do to us.
Brits have been urged not to touch the insects if they come into contact with them, and should seek a pharmacist immediately if they do. Those who do touch oak processionary moth caterpillars could develop a nasty rash or experience breathing difficulties. They might also get sore, itchy, or irritated eyes and throat. Oak Processionary Moths have been present in the UK since 2012, with infestations found in London and parts of the South East in recent years. The greatest risk period for the tree pest is between June and August when the species feeds before turning into moths. The pests are grey with blackheads and long white hairs. They have a distinctive dark stripe down their back and can grow up to 2cm in length.
Oak Processionary Moths can be identified by their dome or teardrop-shaped nests, which range in size from a ping pong ball to as large as a rucksack. They are white when fresh, but soon become discoloured and brown. The greatest risk period is May to July when the caterpillars emerge and feed before pupating into adult moths, so you’re more likely to encounter them during those warmer months.
The oak processionary moth caterpillars are a real threat to humans and animals alike. The insects have spiked across parts of south-east England, and their presence has become a serious problem. Oak Processionary Moths can be identified by their dome or teardrop-shaped nests, which range in size from a ping pong ball to as large as a rucksack. The greatest risk period is May to July when the caterpillars emerge and feed before pupating into adult moths, so you’re more likely to encounter them during those warmer months.
The pests are grey with blackheads and long white hairs. They have a distinctive dark stripe down their back and can grow up to 2cm in length. The Forestry Commission has issued an advisory, as the insects have been identified as a hazard to humans and animals. Brits have been urged not to touch the insects if they come into contact with them, and should seek a pharmacist immediately if they do. Those who do touch oak processionary moth caterpillars could develop a nasty rash or experience breathing difficulties. They might also get sore, itchy, or irritated eyes and throat.
Oak processionary moth caterpillars have caused a number of issues in recent months. The pests feed on oak tree leaves, disrupting growth and leaving the tree breed vulnerable to other pests, diseases, and drought. However, the species have become more feared for what they can do to us. The oak processionary moth caterpillars are a real threat to humans and animals alike. Brits have been warned not to approach them.
It comes after an urgent warning was issued concerning a plague of poisonous dart-throwing insects that are set to swarm the UK. Elsewhere, a pest terminator has revealed the trick to banishing pesky flies, slugs, and spiders from your home. The oak processionary moth caterpillars are a real concern for the UK, and it is important to take precautions to avoid contact with them. The Forestry Commission advisory should be taken seriously, and Brits should seek medical attention if they come into contact with the insects.
