Oak Processionary

Thaumetopoea processionea
Notodontidae
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Description

Grey to grey-brown caterpillar. Long silky white hairs. Highly urticating. Caution if allergic.

Information
Size
3–4 cm
Observation period
April to July
Toxicity
Urticating
Rarity
Common
Host plants
Oak
Distribution

Western and southern Europe. Expanding northward due to climate change.

Notes

Forms processions when moving. Urticating hairs can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.