The 'Toxic' Essex Caterpillar Threat

Essex residents urged to stay alert for a dangerous caterpillar which poses health risks.

The warm Essex spring weather has led to an increase in the numbers of an invasive and dangerous caterpillar. The oak processionary moth was first recorded in the UK in 2006 after being introduced from Europe and has now spread far and wide, inlcluding across many parts of Essex.

So how dangerous are these caterpillars and why? Jodie Halford investigates...