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Be alert for toxic caterpillars
AG readers are being asked to be alert for, and report, the caterpillars of a moth that could potentially devastate our ancient oak trees and also cause uncomfortable allergic reactions in people.
Oak processionary moth caterpillars, which are mainly found in the south east of England, are a tree pest which can strip oak trees of their foliage and leave them susceptible to disease. 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. They also make distinctive-looking nests out of silken webbing that contains hairs which cause intense irritation to skin, eyes and throat if touched. Anyone affected should seek medical advice.
The Forestry Commission are asking people to report sightings via a website or email, so the moths and caterpillars can be controlled.
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 was found at a site designated free from the pest. Professor Nicola Spence, UK Chief Plant Health Officer, 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.”
She added: “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.”
The caterpillars descend down oak trees in head-to-tail processionary form, occasionally taking the form of an arrow shape, earning them their name. More information about oak processionary moths can be searched for at the website gov.uk and sightings should be reported to treealert.forestresearch.gov.uk or emailed to opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk
