Dangerous Puss Caterpillar

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Old 09-08-2014, 09:11 PM
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This caterpillar shows up a couple times per year in Florida, very dangerous..

The puss caterpillar is the larval stage of a moth, Megalopyge opercularis. It is found on oaks, elms, citrus and a number of other trees, as well as on many garden plants such as roses and ivy. It can be found as far north as New Jersey, and on down into Mexico and even Central America.

Read more: Scientists warn us to stay away from the 'Puss' caterpillar

Florida scientists warn residents NOT to touch fluffy caterpillar whose fur hides poisonous spines that cause so much pain you may pass out

Scientists warn us to stay away from the 'Puss' caterpillar


More pictures on website below...

Florida scientist warn residents NOT to touch puss caterpillar | Mail Online
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Last edited by KeepingItReal; 11-23-2014 at 02:53 PM.
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Old 09-08-2014, 09:20 PM
cattywampus cattywampus is offline
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Thank You for this valuable info.

I appreciate your efforts to keep us safe.
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Old 09-09-2014, 04:52 AM
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I would not touch any caterpillar, even one that looks like a kitten. But children might. Thanks for the warning.
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Old 09-09-2014, 05:29 AM
butterfly sue butterfly sue is offline
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There are 4 caterpillars to avoid in FL. All are moths. If you do not know what it is then do not touch it. Some caterpillars feel like they are stinging. Some people are less tolerant if them.

SP107/IN014: Stinging and Venomous Caterpillars

If the link doesn't work, do a search on Stinging Caterpillars in FL
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Old 09-09-2014, 09:13 AM
NIPAS K-9 NIPAS K-9 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by butterfly sue View Post
There are 4 caterpillars to avoid in FL. All are moths. If you do not know what it is then do not touch it. Some caterpillars feel like they are stinging. Some people are less tolerant if them.

SP107/IN014: Stinging and Venomous Caterpillars

If the link doesn't work, do a search on Stinging Caterpillars in FL
I didn't know that thanks, for your post.
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Old 09-09-2014, 09:57 AM
janmcn janmcn is offline
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According to the local TV news, the sting of the puss caterpillar is worse than the sting of a jelly fish.
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Old 09-09-2014, 10:25 AM
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puss caterpillar sting - Bing Images
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Old 09-09-2014, 11:11 AM
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Have not even see a Caterpillar in last 10 years good thing it not on a love bug.
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Old 09-09-2014, 01:11 PM
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Yikes I didn't know this. Thank you.
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