Oak processionary caterpillar

For about twenty years, the oak processionary caterpillar has been found on a large scale in the NL during the summer. Hardly any oak tree is left alone by the hairy caterpillar from May through August. The caterpillar's hairs cause discomfort and irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. The municipality controls the oak processionary caterpillar in public spaces.

How do we control the caterpillar?

From 2022 onwards, the Municipality of Voorschoten is committed to proactive control of crystalline oak processionary caterpillar. The following steps are followed:

1. Risk assessment and registration
In advance, all oak trees owned by the municipality are checked for nests of the oak processionary caterpillar. These trees are registered, and if nests are found in them, the trees are marked.

2. Control  
The marked trees are visited within a week by a specialized company that vacuums away the nests of the oak processionary caterpillar. Vacuuming is a natural and environmentally friendly approach that does not disturb other insects. Burning or using poison is also a possibility, but these are options we do not deploy. 

What can you do yourself?

Do you own an oak tree affected by the oak processionary caterpillar? If so, you are responsible for removing the caterpillar yourself. While it is not mandatory, we strongly recommend it. Removing the caterpillars is a difficult task, so it is best to hire a specialist. 

Report oak processionary caterpillar

The oak processionary caterpillar lives exclusively in oak trees. The nest can be identified by its white web. Have you spotted a nest of the oak processionary caterpillar in an oak tree? Please report it by calling 14 071 or via the reporting system.