Puss Caterpillar

[Nebulous's iconNebulous]

It looks so nice to touch. But you mustn't touch.

That's the message that's circulating amongst local Florida media this month about the puss caterpillar. A cute but venomous variety of caterpillar that is especially common in the area at this time of year.

From WFLA:

Under all that fur on the puss caterpillar are venomous bristles that break off into the skin when touched by humans and cause serious pain. This caterpillar is the most poisonous in the country, and makes its home in several different kinds of trees found in Florida, such as elm, oak and sycamore.

Emergency room physician Dr. Glenn Hardesty told KTAL, "It's the pain. It is instant and immediate and it's very intense." He said the sensation is worse than a sting from a bee or scorpion.

Don't live in Florida? You should still be filled with fear. The puss caterpillar can be found along the east coast from New Jersey to Florida and as far west as Texas "where it is most prevalent," according to KTAL.

Summer is over. The season of pain and suffering is upon us.

Pics / Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/10/puss-caterpillar_n_5794246.html

Creepy, interesting.
Watch out for that puss!

 

[DrLeftover]

They'd show up in Delaware now an again.

One stung our old dog a few years ago. She yelped and her nose swelled up, but she recovered.

And, no, she didn't learn her lesson. Not long after that she got sprayed by a skunk.

 

[ShortieShortie's icon]

Oh wow, they look really weird but I will admit they do look like they are nice to touch

Where I live I have never seen anything like this so not sure that we even get them but it's always nice to know about these things. Thanks!

 

[Jazzy]

I've never seen one but I thank you for posting this information.

 

[Dee]

Never seen one of these either, but I'm sure I'd be slightly creeped out and just walk away. xD

 

[Evil Eye]

It's the Cousin Itt of caterpillars!