Dangerous caterpillars discovered in Luxembourg

The Oak Processionary is a moth, from caterpillars, which eats oak leaves and quite literally “proceeds”or marches through oak trees. The caterpillar hairs contain a poisonous substance called thametopoein, which can cause painful skin inflammation and allergic reactions. Breathing in near the hairs can also trigger asthma attacks.

The insect can be recognised by its particular way of moving around, where several hundreds of caterpillars follow each other in a sort of procession. They also have an unusual back with dark, broad, velvet-like patches and red-brown, long-haired warts.

The Ministry of Sustainable Development warns people not to touch the insect cocoons, which are mostly found high up in trees but could also appear at the bottom of tree trunks.

If you suspect that you are suffering an allergic reaction caused by caterpillar hair, you should seek advice from your doctor.

Oak processionaries do not only appear in woodland areas but can also be found in oak trees in parks or gardens.