AN URGENT warning has been made over a swarm of toxic caterpillars invading the UK. The bugs pose a serious health risk to people and can leave those who touch them with rashes and difficulty breathing . 5 The black caterpillars have venomous white hairs around their body 5 Where the critters can be found in the UK 5 Touching the caterpillars can leave people with red rashes Oak processionary moth caterpillars might look cute but officials are asking the public to report any sightings and stay clear of touching them.
They are found in south east England - having been accidentally transported from Europe in trees for planting. Oak processionary moth caterpillars and their nests of white silken webbing should not be touched under any circumstances, say the Forestry Commission. The critters are covered in hundreds of white hairs which are venomous.
Touching the hairs can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation. The caterpillars have their name from the way they descend oak trees - in a nose-to-tail processionary form. Not only are they dangerous to people, they also damage Britain's beautiful oaks.
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