Moth of the Moment – Oak Processionary

The name Oak Processionary moth has an almost whimsical ring to it, conjuring up an image of tiny insects dutifully marching through the woods in orderly file. The reality is rather less charming. Native to central and southern Europe, Thaumetopoea processionea was once little more than an occasional visitor to Britain, with adult males drifting across the Channel to the south coast in late summer. That changed in 2006 when breeding populations were discovered in West London. Since then, the species has become established across several London boroughs, with additional populations in Berkshire and the Channel Islands, and its range continues to expand. Oak Processionary sideview My first turned up in the garden trap on the night of 29th July 2026/ The “processionary” part of its name is entirely deserved. The caterpillars move in remarkably disciplined nose-to-tail columns that can wind across oak trunks and branches. It’s a fascinating example of collective behaviour. Unfortunately,…