table of contents
- Occurrence and appearance
- Oak processionary moths report
- Behave properly
- frequently asked Questions
Oak processionary moths are pests that can be dangerous for humans and nature. The caterpillar is now widespread in this country. Many people ask themselves whether there is an obligation to report and where to report an infestation with oak processionary moth.
In a nutshell
- Caterpillars live between May and July
- no official obligation to report oak processionary moths
- voluntary notification of the authorities is recommended
- Disposal by specialists with subsequent control
- Symptoms affect the skin and respiratory system
Occurrence and appearance
The oak processionary moth is a little conspicuous butterfly. However, the caterpillars can occur in flocks. These are poisonous to animals and humans. The caterpillars have a dark line across their backs. At the same time, they are relatively strong hairy and have reddish brown warts. As the name suggests, the caterpillars prefer different ones
Oak species. However, if there is a strong infestation in one region, caterpillars on other trees can also be the poisonous and feared species.
Note: The caterpillars quickly join together in the eponymous "processions" and migrate in this form in the twilight to feed in the crown of the tree.
Oak processionary moths report
It is widely believed that oak processionary moths are required to register. However, you do not have to report the caterpillars at all. At least there is no official reporting requirement. But: Despite the lack of obligation, you should always report the caterpillars. Then the authorities can react to protect people, animals and the environment. You can contact these authorities informally, for example by phone call or email:
- Municipal office / town hall
- Green area office / environmental office
- Public order office
- Health department
Tip: At the same time, you should have all the necessary information available to the authorities. This includes the exact details of the location. A photo of the infestation can also help.
Behave properly
After you have reported the infestation with oak processionary moths to the competent authority, they will then take the necessary steps and give you tips on how to proceed.
First of all, you should stay away from the trees and caterpillars. Contact with the poisonous hair can cause severe symptoms. In the event of an infestation in your own garden, it is also advisable to contact a specialist company. There are two cases where you should definitely seek advice from specialists:
- First infestation: specialist company for disposal
- Infestation in the previous year: return for control
Note: If the nest is on your own property, you will have to pay the costs. You can easily report the caterpillars in public. The municipality then pays for the removal.
frequently asked Questions
The oak processionary moth originally comes from southern Europe. There he is historically active on the Iberian Peninsula. However, the moth is increasingly spreading in northern Europe. In Germany there are now the oak processionary moths in every federal state.
The female lays up to 150 white eggs. At the beginning of May the poisonous caterpillars hatch from the eggs. The caterpillars pupate in late June to early July.
The hair of the oak processionary moth is poisonous. Anyone who comes into contact with the caterpillar hair suffers different allergic reactions. These include a very itchy rash, inflammation of the skin, or swelling. The caterpillar dermatitis is considered to be very unpleasant. In the worst case, an allergic shock can endanger life. Inhaling the caterpillar hairs can also lead to breathing problems.
