Description
The oak processionary moth caterpillar crawls through oak trees in groups (processions). The caterpillars have irritating hairs that can cause severe skin irritation, eye inflammation, and respiratory problems.
Behavior
The caterpillars are active from May to July. They live in white nest balls in oak trees. The hairs are easily carried by the wind and remain active in leftover nests even after summer.
What to do
NEVER touch caterpillars or nests. Keep at least 50 meters from affected trees. On skin contact: shower immediately, change all clothing, wash everything at 60°C. On eye contact: rinse with plenty of water and see a doctor. Local councils are required to remove nests.
Pro tip
Don't picnic or sit under oak trees in May–July. Watch for warning signs posted by local councils. Apps like 'Eikenprocessierups' show current nest locations.
Interesting fact
A single oak processionary caterpillar has about 700,000 irritating hairs. A nest of hundreds of caterpillars spreads millions of hairs that can stay active for up to three years.