While most homeowners want to attract wildlife to their gardens, the brown-tail moth is causing increasing concern across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
Branching Out Tree and Garden Services is one of a handful of local contractors who have the equipment and training needed to deal with infestations. In this article, we highlight why the moth can pose serious risks to humans and pets, and the surrounding environment.
What is the brown-tail moth?
The brown-tail moth is a species of moth whose caterpillars are covered in tiny barbed hairs. These hairs are the main source of concern, as they contain toxins that can cause significant irritation when they come into contact with skin or are inhaled.
The caterpillars are typically found in trees, hedgerows and shrubs during spring and early summer. They create distinctive silk webbing nests, often at the ends of branches, where colonies gather together. Although small in size, their impact can be surprisingly severe.
Adult brown-tail moths are white with a distinctive brown tuft of hair on their abdomen. Caterpillars are dark brown with a white stripe on each side and, crucially, two red-orange spots on their back near the tail.
For more information, read the RHS guide on the brown-tail moth.
Why are brown-tail moth hairs dangerous?
The hairs produced by brown-tail moth caterpillars are highly irritating to humans and animals. In fact, we recently heard of a kitten who died after eating hairs. For humans, even minimal contact can lead to skin rashes similar to severe nettle stings, causing redness, itching and discomfort. For some individuals, reactions can be much more serious.
The greatest danger comes when the hairs become airborne. Disturbing nests or attempting removal without protection can release thousands of microscopic hairs into the air. Once inhaled, they may cause respiratory problems, sore throats, coughing and breathing difficulties. The hairs can also irritate the eyes and remain active in the environment long after the caterpillars themselves have gone.
Here at Branching Out, our team use appropriate PPE including hazmat suits and spray infestations with hair spray to prevent hairs from being blown around in the air.
The risks of attempting DIY removal
Many homeowners understandably assume they can simply cut away affected branches or remove nests themselves. Unfortunately, this can make the problem significantly worse.
Using hedge trimmers, ladders or even basic gardening gloves provides little protection against airborne hairs. Disturbing nests without specialist equipment can spread the toxic hairs across gardens, patios, clothing and outdoor furniture, increasing the risk of exposure for the whole household.
There is also the added risk of working at height and handling infested branches without proper containment procedures. In some cases, contaminated waste may also require controlled disposal.
Why professional removal is essential
Qualified professionals have the required training, equipment and health and safety procedures to deal with brown-tail moth infestations.
At Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, we assess affected trees carefully and use appropriate protective clothing, respiratory equipment and controlled removal methods to minimise risk. We also ensure contaminated material is handled and disposed of responsibly, helping prevent further spread.
Just as importantly, we know how to identify the extent of an infestation and advise on the most effective management approach moving forward.
Protecting your garden and your health
Early identification is key to dealing with any infestation. If you notice unusual webbing nests in trees or shrubs, particularly during spring and summer, it is important not to disturb them. Keep children and pets away from affected areas and seek professional advice before attempting any work.
At Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, we help homeowners, commercial clients and land managers deal with hazardous pests safely and professionally. If you are concerned about possible brown-tail moth activity on your property, get in touch with our team for expert guidance and support. Contact us today to learn more.