New measures from the Forestry Commission aim to protect oak trees by managing the impact of a tree pest.

The commission is providing new guidance and support to help with the management of the oak processionary moth.

The moth's caterpillars and their nests contain hairs which can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritations, and should not be touched.

The greatest risk period is May to July when the caterpillars emerge and feed before pupating into adult moths.

But as OPM season begins in March and changes to the boundaries of the pest management zones are being implemented now.

An expanded Established Area will cover the main area of infestation.

In this area landowners will have greater flexibility in managing OPM plus new forms of financial support through OPM Facilitation grants.

Landowners can apply to take part in the Private Residents’ Pilot before February 21.

A Buffer Zone, where an annual programme of OPM surveillance and control takes place, will be extended into the Pest-Free Area, which covers the rest of the UK.

Updated guidance on how to identify and manage OPM can also be found on the Government website gov.uk.

Nicola Spence, the UK chief plant health officer, said: “Oak processionary moth larvae can cause significant damage to oak trees and pose a risk to human and animal health.

“These new measures are designed to ensure our precious oak is retained in the landscape, as part of our wider tree health protection regime. Any sightings should be reported to the Forestry Commission via its TreeAlert online portal.”