Warning after invasive moth is found in Ireland

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) have announced a finding of Thaumetopoea processionea, commonly known as the Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) in Ireland.

Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars were found on four Oak trees in a Dublin housing estate. The nests and four trees have been destroyed.

Ireland has a Protected Zone status under the EU Plant Health legislation for this pest.

A Protected Zone is an area of the EU which is free from a harmful organism. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have commenced an investigation into this infestation. Surveying for this pest around the infected site has commenced and an intensive survey campaign using trapping methods and visual examinations of oak trees will continue over the coming weeks and months.

The caterpillars (larvae) of this moth are mainly associated with feeding on the foliage of Oak (Quercus) tree species. However, when there are limited oak trees available, larvae have been observed to feed on other tree species (Acacia, Birch, Hornbeam, Hawthorn, Hazel and Beech) but it is uncertain whether they can survive on these species and complete their lifecycle development to adults.

The caterpillars (larvae) feed on leaves and can cause severe defoliation leaving trees weakened and open to secondary infections from other pest and diseases.

In addition, the department said this moth also poses a potential risk for human health and animal health, as the body of the caterpillar is adorned with numerous irritating hairs. Contact with the hairs can provoke allergic reactions which manifest as skin rashes, conjunctivitis and respiratory problems such as pharyngitis and asthma.

Suspected sightings in Ireland should be treated with extreme caution and notified immediately to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with your contact details and geolocation of the sighting by emailing [email protected] or by telephone 00353 1-505 8885.

Do Not:

touch or approach nests or caterpillars

let children touch or approach nests or caterpillars

let animals touch or approach nests or caterpillars

try removing nests or caterpillars yourself

Do:

warn children not to touch or approach the nests or caterpillars

seek medical advice if you think you or someone you care for has been seriously affected

see a vet if you think your pet or livestock has been seriously affected

Further information can be found online on OPM Factsheet