People in greater London and Berkshire, are being advised not to touch the oak processionary caterpillars which are now emerging in oak trees in these areas. The Forestry Commission issued a warning earlier this month that children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the caterpillars and any sightings should be reported to the Commission.

The caterpillars develop into the oak processionary moth, a recent arrival in Britain, which is a forestry pest and potential health hazard. They damage oak trees by feeding on the leaves, in some cases leaving the trees severely defoliated and vulnerable to other threats.

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The caterpillars have thousands of tiny toxic hairs which, on contact, can cause itchy skin rashes and eye and throat irritation in people and animals. The caterpillars pose the most risk to health during May and June, in their final stages of development.

Alison Field, South East England and London Area Director for the Forestry Commission, said the public could help, although she urged people not to touch the caterpillars or their nests.

Sighting reports of the pests can be sent to the Forestry Commission’s Forest Research agency at christine.tilbury@forestry.gsi.gov.uk or by phoning on 01420 22255.

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