The inch-long crawlers that are generally found on oak and elm trees are currently making a comeback, as is the case for many inhabitants of Central Florida.
According to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the caterpillars, sometimes known as asps, have furry-looking hair covering very deadly spines that adhere to your skin.
Puss caterpillars and how harmful are them
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Puss caterpillar stings can cause swelling, blisters, rashes, stinging, and burning at various locations on the body.
The puss caterpillar, which is about an inch long, is widespread in Texas, Florida, New Jersey, and Arkansas, as well as nearby places.
The months of fall and spring are when the bugs are most common, as per KTLA.
Logan Pergola, 15, reported to WFLA in Tampa that while he was out with his family, a puss caterpillar attacked him, leaving a sizable grid-like imprint on his wrist before the discomfort spread.
Perhaps you're wondering where its head and legs are. They're just obscured by their hair. The AgriLife Extension at Texas A&M University noted that puss caterpillars have biting mouthparts.
The feces of puss caterpillars are propelled. According to the University of Florida, this may be done to prevent feces off their meal.
The caterpillars will transform into flannel moths, also referred to as southern flannel moths, after a winter cocoon phase.
According to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, adults' wingspans are roughly 1 to 1.5 inches long. Typically, the front wings are yellow and black, and the hidden wings are cream yellow.
Their thoraxes are orange.
Even while it's best to completely avoid them, doctors advise that if you get stung, you should use cellophane tape to remove the spines from your skin as quickly as possible.
You can also use ice packs, oral antihistamines, and hydrocortisone cream to relieve pain.
Despite the fact that southern flannel moths are less dangerous than puss caterpillars, authorities advise against handling them.
Respond to seeing Puss caterpillars in your surroundings
The majority of these organisms are benign. However, some of them have the potential to cause some rather major issues if left unchecked, as per Third Coast.
Asp caterpillars, often referred to as puss caterpillars, are among the most troublesome pests that may take over your yard.
How can we remove their toxic presence from your yard without touching them and running the danger of an allergic reaction?
Inform your loved ones that these caterpillars might be dangerous, especially if you have children. As you strive to remove them from your yard, this will assist you to prevent mishaps.
It's unlikely that you or a family member will require medical attention if a puss caterpillar stings you or them. Usually, you can take care of the sting at home.
Remove any embedded hairs and clean the sting with water and soap. Next pour isopropyl alcohol and apply a calamine lotion to relieve sting or itch.
Consider eradicating puss caterpillars from your yard if you see them scurrying around on plants (if possible).
The caterpillars will be forced to relocate because their current home will be removed.
Wear gloves and goggles to ensure your safety when removing plants that are home to puss caterpillars, this will offer some additional protection.
When dealing with puss caterpillars, stay away from traditional insecticides because they can hurt your plants or eradicate beneficial insects.
And lastly, it's preferable to let professionals tackle the matter if you have a significant puss caterpillar infestation on your hands.
