71.001 BF2022 – Oak Processionary – Notodontidae – Thaumetopoeinae
Oak Processionary – Notodontidae – Thaumetopeinae – Thaumetopoea processionea – colour code •
STATUS – Last recorded 2023. A central and Southern European species. Adult males occasionally turning up in August as vagrants. A probable new species for Derbyshire. Paul Buxton trapped an adult (probable female) on19th August 2021 followed by another more pristine adult (probable male) on 25th August 2021. Very difficult to say whether these specimens are migrants or adventives, via imported flowers, salads, vegetables. The species is a pest on oak, causing severe defoliation and creating a health hazard. The minute hairs of the moth and caterpillars can cause severe prickling or stinging symptoms. A further specimen trapped at Findern on 12th August 2022. An influx of caterpillars in Long Eaton during July 2023 was dealt with by the authorities.
This species is covered by UK Plant Health legislation under which it is illegal to knowingly keep, store or sell it.
ID POINTERS – Generally a pale greyish brown or pale grey, with a large darker brown or grey-brown “furry” head. Several narrow and wavy cross bands across central area of forewing. Sometimes the cross-bands can have contrastingly darker centres. Fairly distinctive.
FLIGHT PERIOD – On the wing late July – mid September
IMAGES – Long Eaton, Derbyshire – Images by Paul Buxton©
