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For example, the oak processionary moth, whose caterpillars infest oak trees, thrive in these shorter cold spells making the oaks more vulnerable to attack from other parasites, he says.

Do you know an Asian hornet or an oak processionary moth caterpillar when you see one?

But following a this year’s mild spring and warm, dry summer, the oak processionary’s nests have been found in large numbers all over the country.

Oak processionary moth caterpillars, named after the nose-to-tail processions they form to travel between the oak trees they devour, have fine, long hairs with an irritating toxin that can cause blistering rashes, feverish dizzy spells and asthma attacks.

“The oak processionary infestation this year is very intensive – much more than last year,” said the park’s manager, Frank Dartsch.