Science News

27 June 2008

Oak Processionary Moth nest removal at Kew Gardens w/c 30 June 2008

Tony Kirkham, Head of the Arboretum at Kew Gardens said: "We start removing Oak Processionary Moth caterpillar nests from affected trees in Kew Gardens next week. Now is the optimum time to destroy the nests as the caterpillars have settled down to pupate - the larval stage of the moth.

"We have been working hard to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff through consistent monitoring of our Oak trees and introducing practical measures, such as sticky bands on trees, to keep the caterpillars high up in the tree canopy where they pose less of a risk to people.

"Our knowledge of Oak Processionary Moth has moved on in leaps and bounds since its first appearance in the Gardens in 2006 and our science colleagues in the Jodrell laboratory here at Kew have been researching this new pest by studying removed nests, caterpillars and moths. This work is not only vital in the fight to prevent Oak Processionary Moth spreading from west London to other parts of the UK, but also for the future management of other exotic pests and diseases that are able to thrive in the UK thanks to our warmer weather.

"We are not just using our expertise and knowledge to control and manage Oak Processionary Moth in Kew Gardens but are also one of the partner organisations involved in the Outbreak Management Team, which is led by the Forestry Commission."

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