Haydon Wick Parish Council is aware of increased ermine moth caterpillar activity affecting two trees at Lyddon Way.
Residents may notice striking web-like coverings surrounding parts of the trees, alongside areas where leaves have been eaten. While the appearance can look unusual, the webbing is a natural protective measure created by the caterpillars and poses no harm to people, pets, or the wider environment.
The activity is temporary and expected to die down naturally over the coming months, after which the trees are anticipated to recover and flourish as normal.
The Council would like to thank its vigilant Parks & Open Spaces Team, who have been closely monitoring the area and identifying ways to support local biodiversity.
Following their observations, maintenance schedules in the immediate area have been adjusted to allow the caterpillar nests to thrive undisturbed during this stage of their lifecycle.
As part of this approach, grass cutting and maintenance work between the affected trees will be paused until the activity has subsided.
Residents are kindly encouraged to leave the nests undisturbed and help protect this important natural process. While the webbing may appear dramatic, ermine moth caterpillars are a valuable part of the local ecosystem, and their activity is both seasonal and short-lived.
The Council remains committed to balancing the management of public spaces with the protection and encouragement of local wildlife and ecosystems.
Councillor Leigh Jackson, Chair of the Parks & Open Spaces Committee, said “I’d like to thank the Council’s Parks & Open Spaces Team for the careful monitoring of this situation and the attention to detail in recognising the ecological importance of these caterpillars. The proactive approach has allowed us to support a natural wildlife process while continuing to manage our public spaces responsibly. Although the webbing may look unusual, it’s a positive example of biodiversity in action, and we’re pleased to be able to play our part in protecting it.”
