Peak OPM Season in Cobham – ArborLife Removes Oak Processionary Moth Nests from Two Mature Oak Trees

Why May to July Is the Most Important Time to Check Your Oak Trees

Every year between May and July, our phones ring almost daily with reports of suspicious caterpillars, silky nests and concerns about Oak Processionary Moth (OPM). As one of Surrey's leading specialists in OPM nest removal, ArborLife Tree Surgeons spend much of the early summer helping homeowners, estates and property managers protect both people and valuable oak trees.

This week our team attended a private property in St Andrews Gardens, Cobham, where two mature oak trees had become home to several active Oak Processionary Moth nests.

Using specialist protective equipment and proven removal techniques, we safely removed the infestation before it became a greater risk to the family, their neighbours and visiting pets.

Why OPM Activity Increases During Early Summer

The period from May through to July is when Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars are most active.

As they grow, they begin forming distinctive silk nests on the trunks and larger branches of oak trees. During this stage they also develop thousands of microscopic defensive hairs which contain an irritant capable of causing serious reactions.

This is why professional inspections during late spring and early summer are so important.

Early removal prevents the infestation from spreading and significantly reduces the risk of accidental exposure.

Specialist OPM Removal in Cobham

This particular project involved two mature oak trees growing within a well-established back garden.

Because the nests were located at different heights throughout the canopy, our arborists combined several safe access techniques including:

• Professional ladder access
• Rope and harness climbing
• Careful branch inspections
• Controlled nest removal
• Secure containment of contaminated material

Each nest was carefully sealed immediately after removal before being safely disposed of in accordance with current best practice.

Wearing the Right Protective Equipment

Unlike routine tree pruning, Oak Processionary Moth removal requires specialist Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Our team wore:

• Full disposable protective suits
• Respiratory protection
• Eye protection
• Protective gloves
• Professional climbing equipment
• Specialist containment bags

This equipment protects both our arborists and the surrounding environment from exposure to airborne OPM hairs.

Protecting Families, Pets and Gardens

Many homeowners are surprised to discover that OPM isn't simply a tree problem.

The caterpillars' hairs can be carried by the wind and may settle on:

• Garden furniture
• Children's play equipment
• Lawns
• Patios
• Outdoor seating
• Pet areas

Professional removal helps restore the garden as a safe place for the whole family to enjoy.

Why Homeowners in Cobham Trust ArborLife

Oak Processionary Moth removal requires specialist training, experience and equipment.

ArborLife provides:

✔ Professional OPM inspections

✔ Safe nest removal

✔ Experienced climbing arborists

✔ Fully insured services

✔ Advice for homeowners, schools and estate managers

✔ Fast response throughout Surrey

During May, June and July our teams are dedicated to helping prevent infestations from becoming larger problems later in the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is May to July the busiest period for OPM removal?

This is when Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars are actively feeding and constructing nests. It is also the time when their irritating hairs are most hazardous.

Can OPM nests appear on any tree?

No. Oak Processionary Moth almost exclusively affects oak trees, particularly mature specimens.

How quickly should an OPM nest be removed?

As soon as possible. Leaving nests untreated increases the risk of public exposure and allows the infestation to develop further.

Can rain or wind remove the danger?

No. The toxic hairs remain dangerous even after rainfall and can stay active long after the caterpillars have left the nest.

Do you provide inspections before removing nests?

Yes. We inspect suspected infestations, confirm whether OPM is present and recommend the safest treatment.

Which areas do you cover?

We provide Oak Processionary Moth removal throughout:

Cobham
Oxshott
Esher
Weybridge
Leatherhead
Fetcham
Guildford
Epsom
Surrey
Greater London