Reports tell us that venomous puss caterpillars are showing up around Central Florida. Make sure you keep your distance! Puss Caterpillars are normally an inch long and are mostly found near oak and citrus trees. They are most active in the spring and fall. The caterpillars appear innocent but under the hairs are stiff spines attached to poisonous glands. If you touch them, the spines break into your skin and cause intense pain. According to the Florida poison Information center in Tampa, "People have shown up in the emergency department because it was so painful they couldn’t stand it." Florida's puss caterpillar is one of the most venomous in the country according to Wildlifeflorida.org.
https://www.wtsp.com/article/life/animals/floridas-puss-caterpillar-hairy-venomous/67-767733d1-4f85-4d3b-b36d-673bda0b8679
Here are some tips if you get stung:
- Place clear tape over the are that's affected
- Strip off as much as it takes to remove spines
- Make sure not to use the same piece of tape more than once
- Apply packs of ice to lessen the stinging sensation
- Follow with a paste of water and baking soda
