Toxic caterpillars see Londoners warned to stay away from trees

As if the UK hadn't been through enough, Londoners are now being warned to steer clear of the local trees, due to an infestation of toxic caterpillars.

Hounslow Council issued a notice to residents, saying they were working to remove the caterpillars of the oak processionary moth in the area.

The caterpillars, recognisable by their long white hairs, can cause eye and throat irritations in humans, as well as itchy rashes and breathing difficulties.

LIVE UPDATES: Brisbane lockdown extended

READ MORE: Pair of birds wreak havoc in Texas city

Their nests are usually found on oak tree trunks or branches which can occur in rounded and sometimes hammock-like nests that resemble a greyish bundle of cotton.

If left unchecked, the invasive species can decimate oak trees by stripping them of their leaves, resulting in bare trees that are more open to disease and other pests.

The species was accidentally imported to the UK in recent years.

READ MORE: Solving India's deadly conflict between humans and elephants

Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, urged people to notify council if they spotted the bugs or their nests.

"It's also advisable to minimise spending time under or in the downwind of any infested oak tree, especially on windy days during the summer," she said.

"It's important that residents should not attempt to remove the nests themselves."