Press Release

Oak processionary moth statement

The Oak Processionary Moth, which has adverse health effects on trees and humans, has arrived in the Kew area and nests have been found at Kew Gardens.

Caterpillars of the Oak Processionary Moth have short hairs that contain toxins and can be an irritant to lungs, eyes and skin, and in some cases have caused severe allergic reactions.

Caterpillars begin to appear from the end of April with adults emerging between late July and September, so there is no immediate problem once the old nests have been destroyed. At Kew Gardens, all of the old nests have now been burned so there is no threat to human health.

The Oak Processionary Moth's natural range is the Mediterranean regions of Europe. However, in recent years, its range has extended northwards, possibly as a result of climate change. It is now well established in Holland . In parts of Europe, forests are closed during summer and early autumn. It is believed that eggs of the caterpillar arrived in Britain on trees imported from mainland Europe.

As there is currently no specific national mechanism for dealing with this pest, RBG Kew is working closely with the Environmental Health Agency, Defra, Forestry Research and local organisations to monitor the situation and work together to tackle the problem.

Update on Oak Processionary Moth at Kew - May 2008

For further information, please contact the RBG Kew Press Office on 020 8332 5607 or pr@kew.org. For weekend and out of hours enquiries, please call 020 8332 5000.

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