Oak Processionary
Thaumetopoea processionea
Common
Description
Grey to grey-brown caterpillar. Long silky white hairs. Highly urticating. Caution if allergic.
Information
| Family | Notodontidae |
|---|---|
| Size | 3–4 cm |
| Hairiness | fournie |
| Observation period | April to July |
| Distribution | Western and southern Europe. Expanding northward due to climate change. |
| Toxicity | Urticating |
| Rarity | Common |
Host plants
- Oak
Notes
Forms processions when moving. Urticating hairs can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.