Oak Processionary Moth
The Unwanted Pillar of Society!
There’s a new pest on the block, increasing in numbers, defoliating trees and posing a serious threat to human health
The larvae (caterpillars) of the “Oak Processionary Moth” (Thaumetopoea processionea) predominantly feed on oak, but also hornbeam, hazel, beech, chestnut and birch.
Although the leaf damage can be servere, Oak Processionary caterpillars pose a serious risk to human health. The caterpillars are covered in bristle-like hairs containing a chemical toxin. Human contact with the hairs can provoke allergic reactions manifested as skin rashes, conjunctivitis and respiratory problems such as pharyngitis and asthma. Health problems can occur even if the larvae are not handled as the hairs break off readily and are dispersed in air currents.
Abandoned caterpillar nests contain shed caterpillar skins, pupal cases and vast numbers of detached hairs and should be treated with extreme caution.
The likelihood of human contact is increased as Oak Processionary Moth are most abundant on urban trees, along forest edges and in amenity woodlands.
Moth populations are well established and increasing in northern Europe in response to climate change. Oak Processionary Moth is spreading in London and has been detected further afield and as far North as Sheffield.
So what is the solution?
The biological insecticide Dipel DF contains insecticidal crystal toxins derived from a naturally occurring soil bacteria. These are highly effective at controlling caterpillars. Dipel DF is approved for use in 190 different crop types including vegetables, fruit, forestry, and amenity situations.
Although lethal to caterpillar, Dipel DF is non toxic, biodegradable and safe to other insects, fish, animals and humans and permissible in organic situations. Once a caterpillar has ingested Dipel DF, it stops feeding in minutes and dies within 24-72 hours.
Dipel DF is available to purchase here. A 0.5kg pack is sufficient to treat 6666m2 (1.66 acres).
Download a material safety data sheet here
