What damage can be inflicted by pine processionam moth?

摘要

Pine processionary moth (PPM, Thaumetopoea pityocampa) is a notifiable pest and suspected sightings must be reported. The caterpillars of PPM are a threat to pine (Pinus sp.) trees and some other coniferous tree species, feeding on the needles to thepoint of severe defoliation when large infestations occur.Like its relative the oak processionary moth (OPM, Thaumetopoea processionea), PPM is also a hazard to human and animal health. Caterpillars are covered with hairs that contain a skin-irritating protein called thaumetopoein. Contact with the hairs can cause painful skin rashes and eye irritation, sore throats and breathing difficulties in humans and animals.