Oak processionary moth on public property

The oak processionary moth is an inconspicuous gray-brown moth with a wingspan of 25 to 30 mm. The butterfly species bears its name because of its peculiarity to move one behind the other or next to one another in search of food in the evening, like in a procession. They feed on the buds of the oak trees.

Health hazard from the oak processionary moth:
The problem is the short stinging hairs of the caterpillars (approx. 600,000 per caterpillar), which are formed from the third caterpillar stage. They contain the nettle poison Thaumetopoein,

Symptoms can be: itching, skin inflammation and hives, as well as irritation of the eyes and the upper respiratory tract, which can manifest itself in asthma-like symptoms and shortness of breath.
General symptoms such as dizziness, fever or shock reactions are also possible.
Typical of the contact that has taken place is the itching that lasts for many days with small red swellings or wheals, which can occur primarily on uncovered parts of the body such as the face, neck and arms.
The symptoms can last anywhere from two days to two weeks.

Endangerment time:
The contact risk is greatest during the feeding time of the caterpillars - May to July. The poisonous hairs of the caterpillars can easily break off and be carried over 100m through the air. The poison in the stinging hair is effective for several years.