Specialist OPM Nest Removal in Woking

Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) is a pest that requires particular care when found in gardens, parks and other areas where people and animals may come into contact with affected oak trees.

ArborLife Tree Surgeons recently undertook Oak Processionary Moth nest removal in Woking, Surrey, adding to our growing number of specialist OPM projects across the county.

Our team regularly works with oak trees affected by OPM, providing professional inspection and nest removal services to help property owners manage the risks associated with these caterpillars.

If you've noticed an unusual nest on an oak tree in your garden, it's important to avoid disturbing it until it has been properly identified.

Why OPM Nests Need Specialist Attention

The main concern with Oak Processionary Moth is the tiny irritating hairs produced by the caterpillars.

These hairs contain a substance that can cause skin irritation and, in some cases, eye and respiratory symptoms in people who are exposed.

Dogs, horses and other animals may also be affected.

The hairs can become detached from the caterpillars and accumulate in their nests. They may remain hazardous even after the caterpillars have moved away.

This means that an apparently empty nest should not be assumed to be harmless.

For this reason, OPM nest removal is not a suitable DIY gardening task. Disturbing a nest without appropriate precautions can increase the risk of exposure.

Recognising Oak Processionary Moth in Your Garden

OPM caterpillars are most commonly associated with oak trees, where they feed on the leaves and build nests on the trunk and branches.

Signs to look out for include:

• Clusters of caterpillars moving together in distinctive nose-to-tail processions

• White or grey silken nests attached to oak trunks or branches

• Nests containing shed skins and caterpillar hairs

• Groups of caterpillars gathered on the trunk or larger branches

• Areas of foliage loss where caterpillars have been feeding

OPM nests are not usually suspended freely between branches like the nests of some other caterpillar species.

They are more commonly found attached to the tree itself, sometimes in positions that are difficult to see from ground level.

Not every caterpillar nest on an oak tree is OPM, so correct identification is essential.

Professional OPM Inspection and Nest Removal

Finding one OPM nest does not necessarily mean it is the only nest present.

Other nests may be hidden higher in the canopy, on the underside of branches or around the main trunk.

A professional inspection helps establish the extent of the visible infestation and identify areas requiring attention.

ArborLife's OPM work involves assessing the affected tree, identifying nests and planning suitable removal methods with appropriate protective equipment.

The method of access and removal depends on the position of the nests and the surrounding environment.

Careful containment and handling are important to minimise the release of irritating hairs during the work.

Although nest removal can reduce the immediate source of exposure, it cannot guarantee that further nests will not develop in a subsequent season.

What Should You Do If You Find an OPM Nest in Woking?

If you suspect that an oak tree on your property contains Oak Processionary Moth nests, the safest approach is to leave the affected area undisturbed.

Keep children and pets away from the tree, and avoid attempting to remove the nest with household tools or gardening equipment.

In particular, do not try to burn, pressure wash, sweep or knock down a suspected OPM nest.

Instead, arrange for a suitably experienced professional to assess the tree.

Suspected OPM sightings should also be reported through the Forestry Commission's TreeAlert reporting system, which helps monitor the distribution of the pest.

OPM Removal Throughout Surrey

Although this particular project took place in Woking, ArborLife provides specialist Oak Processionary Moth inspection and nest removal services throughout Surrey.

Our previous projects have included OPM removal in Weybridge, Cobham, Fetcham, Pyrford, Horley and Epsom.

These real-world assignments demonstrate the importance of recognising OPM early and using appropriate professional removal methods.

Whether you have a single oak tree in a private garden or are responsible for trees across a larger property, we can discuss your requirements and advise on the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions About OPM in Woking

How do I know if my oak tree has Oak Processionary Moth?

Look for groups of hairy caterpillars moving in processions or silken nests attached to the trunk and branches of an oak tree. As other species can look similar, professional identification is recommended before any removal work.

Are old OPM nests still dangerous?

Yes. Old nests can retain irritating caterpillar hairs after the insects have left. These hairs may remain hazardous for a considerable period, so abandoned nests should not be disturbed.

Can OPM nests be removed without cutting down the oak tree?

Yes. OPM nest removal is normally carried out without felling the affected oak tree. The aim is to manage the infestation while retaining the tree wherever appropriate.

Can I remove an OPM nest myself?

DIY removal is not recommended. Disturbing nests can release irritating hairs, and specialist protective equipment, handling and containment procedures may be required.

When are OPM caterpillars most active in Surrey?

OPM caterpillars generally emerge during spring and develop through late spring and summer. The precise timing varies with seasonal temperatures. Nests and hazardous hairs may remain after the active caterpillar period.

Will OPM return after the nests have been removed?

It is possible. Removing existing nests does not prevent adult moths from laying eggs or eliminate the possibility of future infestation. Monitoring affected oak trees in subsequent seasons is advisable.

Need Oak Processionary Moth Removal in Woking?

If you've discovered a suspected OPM nest in Woking or elsewhere in Surrey, ArborLife Tree Surgeons can help you assess the situation.

Contact ArborLife for specialist OPM inspection and nest removal.

Visit our Oak Processionary Moth Removal service page to learn more about our work throughout Surrey:

https://arborlifetreesurgeons.co.uk/tree-services/oak-processionary-moth-removal/