Ask an OPM expert
Send us your photos
If you are unsure what you have found on an oak tree, send clear photographs and our OPM team will give you an initial visual opinion and practical next steps.
What to photograph
Four photographs tell us almost everything
- The caterpillars or nest, taken from a safe distance using zoom rather than by getting closer
- The leaves and branch they are on, so the host tree can be identified
- The whole tree, so height and nest position are clear
- A wider view showing what is beneath the tree: path, playground, car park, paddock
Never climb a tree, use a ladder or reach towards a nest to obtain a photograph. If you cannot photograph it safely, describe it instead.
Send your photos
Email the OPM team
advice@oakprocessionarymoth.co.ukPlease include the site postcode, the type of site, and where the tree sits in relation to people. We aim to respond within 48 hours.
Photo identification is preliminary and may not always be conclusive. A professional site inspection or official confirmation may be required.
Supported by
OPM Advice & Management UK is supported by Hertfordshire Pest Control, who provide the professional inspection, monitoring and nest management capability behind the advice on this site.
OPM Advice & Management UK is an independent information resource and is not part of, affiliated with or endorsed by Defra, the Forestry Commission, Forest Research or any local authority. Official organisations and resources are referenced to help visitors access authoritative information. Suspected OPM sightings should be reported through the appropriate official reporting channels.