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Oak Processionary Moth on Public Land Information

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Detailed description

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.

 

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Please note

Who should pay special attention?
People staying in the forest, residents of forest areas with oak trees. Workers from forestry and landscape maintenance companies, as well as road maintenance companies. People on leisure and green areas (e.g. sports fields, campsites, outdoor pools, children's playgrounds). Owners of pets and livestock (animals are also at risk).

How can you protect yourself?
Avoid infested areas and observe cordoned off areas; cover all uncovered areas of the body (neck, neck, arms and legs, etc.) in infested areas. Do not touch the caterpillars, the web (net) and the undergrowth! Avoid contact! Avoid sitting on the grass or ground near infested trees.

Behavior after accidental contact:
Go home as soon as possible, take off your clothes and immediately shower your entire body to remove any stinging hairs. In case of contact with eyes, rinse well with clean water. Wash all clothes at 60 degrees. A doctor should be consulted if symptoms are severe.

The fight against the oak processionary moth and its nests should be carried out by specialists with full protective suits and respiratory protection. In the forest, control measures only have to be taken if the infestation is severe.

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Keywords: Oak processionary moth (EPS) Caterpillar, oak processionary moth on public land

Last updated: 21.04.2025