The oak processionary moth is a major defoliater of oak in Europe. The larvae (caterpillars) feed on the foliage of many species of oaks, including English, Sessile and Turkey oaks. Hornbeam, hazel, beech, sweet chestnut and birch are also reported to be attacked, although mainly when growing next to severely defoliated oaks.
Oak processionary moth is also a risk to human health. The larvae are covered in irritating hairs that contain a toxin and contact with these hairs, or their inhalation, can result in skin irritation and allergic reactions. These problems are significant because oak processionary is often most abundant on urban trees, along forest edges and in amenity woodlands.
Oak processionary moth is a native species of central and southern Europe, where it is widely distributed, but its range has been expanding northwards, presumably in response to climate change. It is now firmly established in northern France and the Netherlands, and has been reported from southern Sweden. More recently, colonies of larvae have been found in parts of London.
