OPM health risks to people, animals and the environment
OPM can affect the health of oak trees, people and animals. They feed on oak leaves, and large populations can strip trees bare, leaving them weakened and vulnerable to other threats.
A protein (thaumetopoein) in the caterpillars' tiny hairs can cause skin and eye irritations, sore throats and breathing difficulties in people and animals who come into contact with them.
If you come into contact with the larvae or caterpillars by accident, follow the health advice about dealing with caterpillar hairs on NHS: Inset bites and stings. If you have an itching skin rash, conjunctivitis or other symptoms, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
Pets must be kept away from the nests and caterpillars.