Overview
- Local authorities issued urgent warnings in late May and early June after sightings in Surrey prompted Woking Borough Council to tell residents to avoid contact and report nests for safe removal.
- The Forestry Commission has declared and is managing outbreaks in Dorset and Derbyshire while continuing surveillance and directing control measures in affected areas.
- Oak processionary moth caterpillars carry thousands of tiny toxic hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation, and breathing problems in people and pets.
- Officials say people should never touch caterpillars or nests and must report precise locations and photos via the Forest Research TreeAlert portal or opm@forestrycommission.gov.uk so specialist contractors can remove nests safely.
- First identified in London in 2006, the invasive moth eats oak leaves and repeated infestations strip trees, making them more vulnerable to disease and environmental stress, which is why coordinated monitoring and removal are being prioritised.