Which fuzzy caterpillars are poisonous?

A fluffy caterpillar is one of the most venomous caterpillars in the United States. The puss caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis) has hidden toxic spines underneath its fur.

Do fuzzy caterpillars have stingers?

Mostly found in states in the Southern US, these furry caterpillars may look soft but their looks are deceiving. The soft fluffy hairs conceal sharp stinging toxic spines than can cause pain if they sting you. These furry caterpillars are considered dangerous insects due to their nasty sting.

How do you treat a caterpillar sting?

Wash the area gently with soap and water. If the area itches, put on a paste of baking soda and water. If that doesn’t help, try a hydrocortisone cream. If that doesn’t help, try an antihistamine cream.

Are all furry caterpillars poisonous?

Caterpillars covered with hair or bristles, with one exception, are rarely poisonous. Even caterpillars bearing fierce horns, such as the tomato hornworm and the hickory horned devil, are not harmful. The most commonly encountered poisonous “worm” in Atlanta is the saddle-back caterpillar.

What happens if you touch a fuzzy caterpillar?

It is thought that exposure to the creature’s tiny hairs, called setae, triggers an overactive immune response in some people. Touching a caterpillar can cause redness, swelling, itching, rash, welts, and small, fluid-filled sacs called vesicles. There may also be a burning or stinging sensation.

What kind of caterpillars have stingers?

Stinging caterpillar species include the buck moth caterpillar, spiny oak slug caterpillar, hickory tussock moth caterpillar, saddleback caterpillar and Io moth caterpillar.

Do caterpillars leave stingers?

While they don’t pack stingers like bees and wasps, you don’t want to reach out and pick them up. A caterpillar sting can leave you with a mild itch to severe pain and swelling, blistering, dermatitis and even intestinal problems.

Should you touch fuzzy caterpillars?

Note: However cute these little guys might look, their hairs (setae) are barbed and venomous, so avoid touching them with your bare hands. While coming into contact with their setae won’t kill you, it can cause a serious rash and allergic reaction.