Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) Management

Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) Treatment & Nest Removal

Oak processionary moth caterpillars are a serious risk to oak trees and to people and animals. If you have oaks on your land, or you’ve spotted nests or caterpillars, we can survey, treat and remove them safely.

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What is oak processionary moth?

Oak processionary moth (OPM) is an invasive pest that arrived in England in the mid-2000s and is now established across London and parts of the surrounding counties. Its caterpillars feed on oak leaves and travel in nose-to-tail lines up and down the trunk, which is how they got their name.

They build silk nests on trunks and branches. These can be as small as a coin or as large as a melon, and they start off white before turning brown and dirty over time.

Why it matters

Health risks. The caterpillars are covered in tiny hairs that can cause itchy skin rashes, sore eyes and throat irritation, and sometimes breathing difficulties. The hairs blow on the wind and stay in old nests long after the caterpillars have gone, so an empty nest is still a hazard. Pets and livestock can also be affected.

Risks to trees. Heavy infestations can strip an oak of its leaves. Year after year, this weakens the tree and leaves it more vulnerable to drought, disease and other pests.

Never touch or try to remove nests yourself. Keep children and pets away from affected trees and call a professional.

Our OPM services

• Site and tree surveys: Checking your oaks for nests and caterpillars, and advising on the level of risk.
• Nest removal: Safe removal and disposal of nests by trained operators in full protective equipment.
• Treatment: [Spraying of affected trees during the early caterpillar stage, where appropriate. Amend to reflect the licences and certification you hold.]
• Management plans: Ongoing plans for landowners and site managers with a number of oaks to look after.
• Emergency response: [Rapid response where nests appear close to schools, footpaths, play areas or busy public spaces.]

Reaching nests in tall oaks

OPM nests are often high in the canopy or on large, mature oaks that are hard to reach. Because we run our own specialist machinery, including MEWPs and a 30m Magni RTH, we can get to nests safely without relying on hired-in equipment. That means we can work faster and reach trees that other contractors can’t.

Who we work for

We have years of experience working with:

• Local authorities: parks, highways, schools and public open spaces
• Commercial clients: business parks, estates, housing developers and property managers
• Residential clients: homeowners with oaks in their gardens

When does OPM season start?

The caterpillars usually start to emerge in spring, and the main period of health risk is from late spring through to the middle of summer. Nests can be treated or removed at different times of the year, so if you’ve spotted one, don’t wait for the season to peak. Early action means less risk and a smaller job.

Why choose us

• Trained operators working in full protective equipment
• Specialist access equipment owned and operated in-house
• Experience with councils, commercial sites and private homes
• [Insurance, accreditations and licences, such as NPTC/LANTRA certification]
• [Clear quotations with no hidden charges]

What to do if you think you’ve found OPM

1. Keep your distance. Don’t touch the caterpillars or nests, and don’t disturb the tree.
2. Keep people and pets away from the area.
3. Contact us for a survey and quote.
4. Report the sighting to the Forestry Commission through the TreeAlert online reporting system, including a photo and the location. OPM is a regulated pest, and in some areas reporting is expected.

Frequently asked questions

Is OPM dangerous to people?
The hairs on the caterpillars and their nests can cause rashes, eye irritation and breathing problems. It’s best to avoid all contact with them.

Can I remove a nest myself?
We strongly advise against it. Nests should be removed by trained professionals with the right protective equipment, as disturbing them can release large numbers of hairs.

Will my council deal with it?
Local authorities and the Forestry Commission manage OPM on public land in many areas, but responsibility for oaks on private property usually lies with the owner. [Add your own guidance here.]