Oak Processionary Moth Control

Lights Out for the Oak Processionary Moth

The Oak Processionary Moth (Thaumetopoea processionea) native to southern and central Europe has been discovered breeding in Oak trees in the UK. In recent years the Oak Processionary Moth has extended it's reach northwards through Europe, probably as a result of climate change.

Danger Signs

The caterpillars of this non-native pest feed on many species of Oak trees, resulting in serious defoliation and long term damage. Hornbeam, Hazel, Beech, Sweet Chestnut and Birch trees, growing close to badly affected Oak trees have also been attacked.

Potential Harm

As well as seriously damaging Oak trees the Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars are considered a health risk to humans and animals. The caterpillars are covered in tiny hairs which contain thaumetopoein, a defensive toxin. Contact with the hairs can cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, conjunctivitis and asthma-like respiratory problems (including severe allergic shock).

Medical specialists warn against any contact, not only with the Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars but also their nests and infected trees, as the tiny toxic hairs can be easily blown great distances on the wind and brought into contact with people and pets.

Business Consequences

The potential problems could include public alarm and immediate loss of local residents trust. The possibility of legal claims regarding ill health or injury caused by contact with the caterpillars toxic hairs. Defoliation and long term tree damage would affect the ambience of any location affected.

Immediate Steps to Take

Rentokil's non-toxic Solution to tackle the Oak Processionary Moth

Rentokil have developed an innovative non-toxic and organic treatment that will help combat this emerging non-native pest. The Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars and their nests are sprayed with the treatment to stop the spread of any toxic hairs before they are removed by qualified technicians with specialist equipment.

The Oak Processionary Moth treatment has many advantages:

• Pesticide free with no risk to humans and animals that may be in the vicinity of any treatment.
• Environmentally friendly, causing no damage to the already weakened Oak trees.
• The combination of unique treatment and specialist removal equipment prevents any spread of the toxic hairs.
• The Oak Processionary Moth removal process is efficient and cost effective.

Call free on 0800 917 1989 to arrange prompt assessment and specialist treatment from the Experts at Rentokil.