Caterpillar warning for West London
LARVAE HAVE BEEN SPOTTED EMERGING FROM EGG PLAQUES
HEATH warnings have been issued following an outbreak of toxic caterpillars in London which can cause skin rashes, vomiting and asthma attacks.
The larvae, or caterpillars, of the oak processionary moth (OPM) are armed with fine hairs which have the ability to cause fevers and throat irritations, according to the Forestry Commission.
Sightings of OPM caterpillars have been reported in large numbers across London and the south-east and people have been urged to avoid coming into direct contact with the species.
The biggest infestations of OPM were recorded in Greater London, with Brent, Ealing, Hounslow, Richmond and Hammersmith & Fulham all affected.
Writing on the Forestry Commission’s website, a health official said: “OPM caterpillars were spotted emerging from egg plaques in mid-April. We began treating trees in the Protected Zone with an approved biopesticide during the week beginning April 23. The treatment programme is expected to continue until late May or early June. After that the caterpillars will be too large to be affected by our preferred treatment product.”
Health precautions
People in the affected areas can take these precautions to minimise the health risks.
Do not touch or approach nests or caterpillars
Do not let children touch or approach nests or caterpillars
Do not let animals touch or approach nests or caterpillars
Do not try removing nests or caterpillars yourself
How to identify the caterpillars
Move about in nose-to-tail processions
Often form arrow-headed processions, with one leader and sub- sequent rows containing several caterpillars abreast
Are most likely to be found in oak trees, and sometimes on the ground under oak trees
Are most likely to be seen in late spring and early summer
Have very long, white hairs which contrast markedly with other, shorter hairs
Do not live on fences, walls and similar structures, as some caterpillar species do