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Oak processionary caterpillar removal in Barneveld
Never take a nest out of your oak yourself. The stinging hairs are the reason I go in wearing a protective suit.
Recognising a nest, and when
The oak processionary caterpillar lives in oaks. If there is no oak in your garden, it is almost certainly something else.
- A nest looks like a felted, greyish pack against the trunk or in the fork of a thick branch.
- There is often some webbing around it, and the pack sits firmly on the bark.
- The caterpillars walk up the trunk in a long line, one behind the other. That is where the name comes from.
- You usually see them from late spring onwards, and the nests can hang there into the summer.
- An empty nest is a nuisance too, because the hairs stay behind in it.
Not sure whether it is the oak processionary caterpillar? Take a photo from a safe distance and message it to me. Then I will tell you what it is, before you do anything.
Never take a nest out yourself
This is the one piece of advice on this page that I give with real emphasis. Stay away from it and leave it to someone with the kit for it.
- The caterpillar has stinging hairs. They come loose and spread through the air.
- That is why I go in wearing a protective suit. Garden trousers and gloves are not that.
- Spraying with the hose or poking at it makes things worse: that is exactly what releases the hairs.
- Keep children and pets away from the tree and hang the washing somewhere else for the time being.
How I go about it
I climb the tree, so a nest high in the crown or on the far side of the trunk is reachable as well. No cherry picker has to come into your garden.
- A look first
You send a photo or I come by. I look at where the nests are and how many there are.
- Into the tree in a protective suit
Fully closed, with protection for face and breathing. That is not for show.
- Removing the nest at the source
I work from up in the tree, close to the nest, so as little movement as possible gets into it.
- It goes with me
What comes off is not left lying in your garden. I take it with me when I leave.
Questions about the oak processionary caterpillar
If your question is not here, just call or message me.
Can I remove a nest myself?
How do I recognise a nest?
What time of year are they in the tree?
I am not sure whether it is the oak processionary caterpillar. What now?
Do you speak English on the job as well?
The tree is not in my garden but along the road. Can you do anything about that?
Do you come outside Barneveld?
A tree that needs attention?
Three short questions and Nathan will call you back. Or just call, that is fine too.
- No-obligation quote.
By appointment at the tree, or send photos via WhatsApp and I will base the quote on those. - No cherry picker.
I climb, so your lawn and driveway stay intact. - Everything goes with me.
Prunings through the chipper, the rest I take away.