Oak processionary moths are probably the most feared caterpillars at the moment - with good reason, actually, because the caterpillars can cause allergies and spread quickly. This makes it all the more important that you can recognize an oak processionary moth nest. We explain what you should pay attention to and which trees are actually affected.
Recognizing oak processionary moth nest: The most important questions
Oak processionary moths are a threat to the health of animals and humans. The caterpillars Thaumetopoea processionea have hairs that contain a dangerous protein. If this comes into contact with the skin or eyes, it can cause breathing difficulties and allergic reactions. Populations of the pest have increased across Europe in recent years. Since the oak processionary moths have no natural predators in this country, combating the invasive insect species is very important. That's why everyone should find out what exactly the caterpillars and especially their nests look like.
What do oak processionary moths and their nests look like?
The EPS caterpillars can easily be confused with other non-poisonous caterpillars - they are hairy and yellowish in color with a dark brown dorsal line. Unlike native caterpillars, the caterpillars move in large processions. Such a procession could be seen both on oak trees and on the ground - when the caterpillars leave their nest to attack another tree. The caterpillars feed exclusively on oak leaves.
The oak processionary moth's nest is white and hangs either on a bare branch or on the trunk of a tree. The pests do not build their nests between the oak leaves. The nest shape adapts to the tree conditions - sometimes the nest looks hemispherical, sometimes tear-shaped. In some cases it looks like a spider web - large and flat. If it becomes too heavy, it may fall to the ground.
The nest provides accommodation for the caterpillars during the day. They are nocturnal and search for food after sunset. From mid-July the nest houses the pupated larvae. From around mid-August (the timing may vary depending on the weather conditions) the moths fly away and then lay their eggs on new oak trees.
When can you see the nest of poisonous caterpillars?
The nest can be seen from June to autumn. Abandoned nests can fall to the ground. The rest can also stick to the tree in winter. From around the beginning of August you can also see the new eggs on the bark of the infected trees.
Oak Processionary Moth Nest: Possible to be confused with cobwebs from other moths
Especially when you look at the nest and its many, atypical shapes, there is a risk of confusion with other butterflies. However, the nest of the poisonous caterpillars is only located on oak trees or directly on the ground under the tree. Even if other trees grow under the tree, they are not attacked by the caterpillars and no nests are built there. The EPK nests are often covered in cobwebsSpider moth confused– the second attacks various tree species, including apple trees, and forms webs on the leaves.
Is the oak processionary moth nest only found on oak trees?
Yes, the oak processionary moth's nest can only be found on oak trees. In some cases it may fall off the tree and can then be seen directly under the tree. The pests never form nests on fruit trees and are almost never found on fences or other man-made structures. If youso a spider webor discovered a nest directly under the roof, then these are not oak processionary moths.
Oak processionary moth nest on the ground
Can you find an oak processionary moth nest on the ground? The answer is yes, you can - but you should make sure that the nest is actually under an oak tree.
Old vs. new nest
Whether it is a new or old nest depends mainly on when you saw it. Abandoned nests fall from the trees and can be found from mid-August. New nests are mainly built in early summer and then remain on the trees until the beginning of August.
Oak processionary moth nest found: what should you do?
You've found an oak processionary moth nest and are now wondering what you should do. The first thing to do is remember the exact spot and then carefully walk away. Under no circumstances should you allow pets or children near the nest. There is currently no obligation to report, but you should still contact your local health department. Because such a nest is dangerous and should be removed by professionals. Even if it is a nest on your own property.
Report the nest and have it removed
You can report the nest to the public order office, health department or parks department. Where you call first depends largely on where you saw the nest. Do not touch the nest or attempt to destroy the nest. Under no circumstances should you throw away old nests in the trash.
