This Mississippi critter may be cute & fuzzy, but it will bite
Don’t be fooled by its innocent, fluffy appearance. This Mississippi critter is one of the most venomous caterpillars in the United States and its bite is far from cute.
The unfortunately named puss caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis) is also known as the Southern Flannel Moth Caterpillar and is might be in your yard right now. They aren’t generally overabundant, but they can be found on hardwood trees like oak. They are a solitary bunch, but can appear in small numbers on trees or shrubs.
Here’s what you need to know about Mississippi’s dangerous little fuzzball.
How can I identify them?
This caterpillar’s look is perilously deceiving. It’s giving “Cousin Itt” and its long, luxurious hair-like spines are begging to be stroked, but don’t do it. Beneath those hairs are venomous spines capable of causing intense pain.
Avoid petting caterpillars with these characteristics:
Teardrop-shaped, resembling a tiny tuft of fur
About 1 inch long
Silky hairs that range from gray to reddish-brown
Nancy Hinkle, entomology professor at the University of Georgia, advises staying vigilant: “They’re so well camouflaged that most people feel them before they see them.”
What makes them so dangerous?
The silky locks lure you in to pet them, but their venomous spines break off upon contact. It releases toxins that cause immediate harm.
According to Louisiana State University’s Agricultural Center, the puss caterpillar’s “stings are instantaneously painful, quickly followed by localized pain that radiates toward regional lymph nodes.”
Reactions can include:
Burning pain
Swelling
Numbness
Nausea
Headaches
Respiratory distress (in some individuals)
What should I do if it stings me?
Bites aren’t all that common in Mississippi, but most stings occur during late summer and early fall when the caterpillars are more active.
If you are stung, follow these guidelines:
Use tape to remove any embedded hairs
Wash the area with soap and water
Apply a baking soda paste or hydrocortisone cream for relief
This fuzzy little caterpillar may seem harmless, but it’s no joke. Next time you spot one in your yard, admire it from a safe distance.
Have you encountered a puss caterpillar? Send me your pics via email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on Instagram.
