Oak processionary moth sighted

The City of Beckum reminds people to watch out for the oak processionary moth in the coming weeks. Over the next few days, the caterpillars will develop stinging hairs that are dangerous to humans and animals and which they will lose over time.

7 June 2023
Barrier tape Oak processionary moth
  • Image: Alexander Fox from PlaNet Fox on Pixabay
Spider moth
The webworm moth, on the other hand, is harmless.

The caterpillars usually migrate up the trunks of oak trees one after the other and build a nest of webs there. This year, the town of Beckum is once again having them vacuumed from municipal properties. Kindergartens and schools in particular will be monitored more closely and prioritised for removal.

Please report!
Anyone who finds oak processionary moths in green spaces can report them to the town of Beckum with their exact location and, if possible, a few pictures. The contact person is Andreas Reske, reske@beckum.de

Oak processionary moths on private property
If the nests are located on private property, the owners are responsible for removing them.

The oak processionary moth should not be confused with the harmless gypsy moth, which tends to colonise hedges.