Warning as oak processionary moths found in Chorleywood Common

The culprits are caterpillars, specifically those part of the oak processionary moth family, which are pests of oak trees and hazardous to humans and animals.

Animals can suffer distress in their mouths and noses if they touch the caterpillars’ hairs, and although the risk is highest in May and June they are reportedly a danger all year. 

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Chorleywood Parish Council warned online: "Oak Processionary Moth has been recorded again on Chorleywood Common.

“The caterpillar hairs are a danger to human and animal health if disturbed.

“Do not touch or get close to the caterpillars or their nests and seek urgent medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction like a rash or breathing difficulties.

“We advise all dog walkers to keep their dogs on short leads.”

The caterpillars cluster together on oak trees, but they must be avoided by animals and humans. Picture: Daniel Dugard, conservation ranger, Chorleywood Parish Council

They are described as having a a grey body, black head, and long white hairs.

Public Health England advises that pets are taken to the vets if they do encounter the pests, while humans can suffer itching skin, rashes, eye irritations, sore throats and breathing difficulties.

If symptoms are severe it is advised to call NHS 111.

The pests were first spotted in Chorleywood in 2021 but they have been documented in Hertfordshire since 2016.

This type of caterpillar was first found in England in 2006 and is mainly in London and the southeast after they were accidentally introduced to England when oak trees were imported from overseas.

Do not touch the caterpillars but report them to the Parish Council. Picture: Daniel Dugard, conservation ranger, Chorleywood Parish Council

They are likely to shed the hairs when threatened or disturbed.

The hairs can be blown by the wind, and they accumulate in the caterpillars’ nests, which can fall to the ground.

People have been urged to avoid them if spotted and report it to Chorleywood Parish Council by emailing ranger@chorleywood-pc.gov.uk or calling 01923 285 594.

The council added: “We are in the process of identifying nest sites and arranging their removal and destruction.”

If you spot a nest elsewhere, you can report it to Tree Alert by visiting https://treealert.forestresearch.gov.uk/.

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