oak processionary moth
service description
The oak processionary moth is a brown-grey butterfly that flies from late July to early September and is harmless to humans. However, the caterpillars of the butterfly, which are considered pests, pose a considerable danger to humans. They hatch in early May, attack mainly single trees (mainly oaks) and feed on their foliage. They go through up to six stages of development before they pupate at the end of June/beginning of July. In mid-June, the older caterpillars retreat to cocoon nests during the day and to molt. From there they go in search of food.
The stinging hairs of the caterpillars with their characteristic nettle poison and the barbs are particularly dangerous for humans. These can cause itchy, inflammatory skin rashes, redness, wheals and blisters (caterpillar dermatitis), rashes or even allergic shocks. Fully formed caterpillars have around half a million stinging hairs that break easily and are thus carried through the air by the wind. As a preventive protective measure, you should avoid direct proximity or direct contact with the caterpillar and its nests. The web nests, in which the stinging hairs remain, pose a lingering danger for years to come. Contact avoidance as an elementary protective measure also applies to pets such as dogs or free-roaming cats.
If you discover an infestation in your garden, you should have professionals (pest exterminators or arborists) carry out the fight, as the stinging hairs can easily be stirred up and there is an increased risk of injury for you and those around you. We therefore advise against fighting it yourself. There is no obligation for private individuals to report to the oak processionary moth, but reporting is recommended.
procedure
The following measures are recommended when coming into contact with the oak processionary moth:
- soothe the itching with cold water
- Rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water but do not rub them, otherwise there is a risk that the stinging hairs will stick to the cornea with their barbs
- Shower, wash hair and change clothes promptly
- Then wash the clothes at 60 degrees
- If possible, do not bring contaminated shoes and clothing into the living area
- in the event of severe health problems, a doctor should be consulted and contact with the oak processionary moth should be pointed out
- In the case of severe allergic reactions with shortness of breath, the emergency services should be called immediately
What documents are required?
The registration of the oak processionary moth in public space is free of charge.
The cost of combating the oak processionary moth on private property is borne by the owner himself.
What else should I know?
Further information on the oak processionary moth can be found in the biocide portal of the Federal Environment Agency
Supporting Institutions