Press Release

Oak Processionary Moth

Oak Processionary Moth has been found in several sites in west London including a number of trees at Kew Gardens. At Kew Gardens, immediate controls have been put in place to eradicate the outbreak. There is currently no significant risk to visitors or staff and the situation is being closely monitored. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is working closely with organisations including the Forestry Commission and local environmental health officers to deal with this problem.

Caterpillars of the Oak Processionary Moth begin to appear from the end of April with adults emerging between late July and September. These caterpillars 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.

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, Belgium and Germany. 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.

UK outbreaks of Oak Processionary Moth to date have only been noted in west London and its natural expansion is not expected to be very rapid. Any findings in private gardens and local parks should be reported to the local Environmental Health Department who will advise on safe removal of nests. Members of the public with related health concerns are advised to contact their general practitioner or local health organisation.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew held a stakeholder meeting in 2006 when the problem was first discovered in west London in order to work with partners to find a solution. A tree health forum was hosted by Kew in May 2007 to share knowledge of Oak Processionary Moth and other tree pests and diseases. Kew continues to work with partners to manage these problems.

Further information and images are available on the Forestry Commission website

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Press information is available from RBG Kew Press Office on 020 8332 5607 or pr@kew.org.

For weekend and out of hours enquiries, please call 020 8332 5000 and ask for duty press officer.

To report sightings in Ealing Borough, call 020 8825 5000 or e-mail trees@ealing.gov.uk;
To report sightings in Richmond Borough, call 020 8891 7994 or e-mail commercialeh@richmond.gov.uk;

Sightings can also be reported to Forest Research, telephone 01420 22255; christine.tilbury@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

An Ordnance Survey grid reference is ideal, otherwise an accurate postal address, including the full postcode, and/or a clear description of the tree's position in a field, park etc, is helpful. Digital photos may also be sent with sighting reports.

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