The post One Wrong Move, and This Seemingly Cuddly Caterpillar Can Easily Send You to the E.R. appeared first on A-Z Animals.
Most of the time, when we encounter a caterpillar, we aren’t on high alert. After all, these seemingly harmless creatures will one day develop into beautiful butterflies or moths. What’s there to fear? Well, in the case of a puss caterpillar, you’ll want to avoid this insect like the plague.
As you can see in this YouTube short, puss caterpillars look innocent and even “cuddly” to some. Their long hair might compel you to “pet” them, but doing so can be extremely harmful.
What Is a Puss Caterpillar?
Puss caterpillars will eventually turn into southern flannel moths.
©Brett Hondow/Shutterstock.com
A puss caterpillar, or Megalopyge opercularis, is part of the moth family Megalopygidae. These “furry” creatures eventually turn into southern flannel moths.
If you happen to witness one up close, do NOT touch it, as the insect is venomous. It is widely regarded as the most venomous caterpillar in the U.S., according to Columbia University Irving Medical Center, due to the severity of reactions it can cause. While it usually doesn’t kill humans or animals, it can cause painful, often severe reactions.
These caterpillars have long “fur” or “hair,” which contains venomous spines called setae. If you brush up against the caterpillar, the spines can penetrate your skin and inject venom, causing a painful sting and other symptoms.
Where Are Puss Caterpillars Located?
Puss caterpillars are covered in setae, which are hair-like structures.
©Weber/iStock via Getty Images
Puss caterpillars reside mostly in the southeastern U.S. and are especially common in Texas. However, they can be found in some northeast states like New Jersey. Most of the time, they frequent deciduous trees and shrubs like elms and oaks, as reported by North Carolina State University. If you happen to see one, it’s best to leave it alone.
Puss Caterpillar Stings
Be sure not to touch a puss caterpillar, no matter how tempting it might be.
©Chase D’animulls/Shutterstock.com
After the initial sting from a puss caterpillar, you will likely experience a host of other concerning symptoms. According to the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, these might include:
- Stinging and/or throbbing pain
- Rash and/or swelling
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Muscle cramps
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Difficulty breathing
- Shock
- Swollen glands
Though rare, some people will even experience seizures, as stated by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Additionally, Texas A&M AgriLife explained that reactions depend on the individual’s sensitivity to the venom, as well as where on the body and how much of it was injected. So, while some people might not have too serious of a reaction, others could end up in anaphylactic shock.
If you come into physical contact with a puss caterpillar, immediately remove the spines with tweezers or tape. Then, wash the area with water and soap. If your reaction is severe, consider taking an antihistamine and/or using hydrocortisone cream. Additionally, be sure to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience severe and persistent pain, a fever, nausea/vomiting, shock, or trouble breathing.
The post One Wrong Move, and This Seemingly Cuddly Caterpillar Can Easily Send You to the E.R. appeared first on A-Z Animals.