If it’s cute and fuzzy, don’t touch it! In Florida, several caterpillar species are colorful and seemingly harmless—but many are dangerous to humans. One of the most venomous caterpillars in the U.S. is the puss caterpillar, and it’s found right here in Florida. If you or your children enjoy time outdoors, it’s important to know what this caterpillar looks like, what to do if you’re stung, and how to get professional puss caterpillar removal.
What Is a Puss Caterpillar?
The puss caterpillar is about one inch long and covered in thick, soft “fur” that hides venomous spines. As the caterpillar molts and grows, the venom potency increases. These spines are connected to venom glands, and underneath are sharp barbs that can cause severe pain, swelling, and even systemic symptoms.
They typically have two broods per year—one in early summer and another in the fall, when sting cases are most common due to increased outdoor activity. They lay their eggs on oak, elm, and other deciduous trees.
Why You Should Never Touch a Cute Caterpillar
Bright colors and fluffy appearances are often a warning sign in nature. Animals like poison dart frogs, coral snakes, and saddleback caterpillars advertise their toxicity with striking looks. The same goes for the puss caterpillar, also known as the woolly slug or perrito (Spanish for “puppy”). At first glance, it might look like a harmless little hairpiece. But this tiny creature can cause serious medical symptoms with just a brush of its “fur.”
Even the eggs look fuzzy and could easily be overlooked. They don’t hatch hairy, much like some mammals you may think of, but develop more “hair” as they molt and get bigger. The “hairs” are actually hollow spines that have venom glands at the base of each hair. Underneath the spines are poisonous barbs that can cause excruciating pain and swelling that can last days to weeks, in some cases.
They typically have one brood in early summer and one in fall. Stings tend to be more prevalent in the fall because more people are outdoors and come into contact with them accidentally. The older and larger the caterpillar, the increased level of toxin it has. The eggs are laid on small twigs and foliage, typically oak and elm trees, and hatch within a week.
What happens if I get stung?
A sting from a puss caterpillar feels like a sudden burn. The pain level depends on your skin’s sensitivity and the size of the caterpillar. You might see a red, grid-like rash in the shape of the caterpillar’s barbs.
According to University of Florida IFAS, more serious symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Muscle spasms
- Seizures (in rare cases)
- Fever and chills
- Rapid heart rate
If symptoms go beyond the initial sting, seek medical attention immediately.
Puss caterpillars may have natural predators like the common Anolis lizard and tachinid flies, but if they’re showing up around your yard or trees, don’t rely on nature alone. Professional puss caterpillar removal is the safest way to protect your family and pets from these toxic insects.
At LydyBug Pest Control, we offer targeted treatment solutions that are safe for your yard and effective against venomous pests like the puss caterpillar.
Image ALT text: LydyBug technician performing caterpillar removal on backyard tree
Learn more about toxic caterpillars from UF’s Entomology Department
Let us help!
Puss caterpillars may look soft and harmless—but don’t be fooled. These dangerous pests can cause real harm, especially to children and pets. If you’ve seen them near your home or want to prevent a future outbreak, contact the experts at LydyBug Pest Control.
LydyBug Pest Control offers preventative and ongoing treatment in Orlando for all pests and can help you take care of any problems. Our experts are fully trained and certified in pest control, so you can be sure they will safely and effectively take care of the problem. Contact us for assistance with poisonous caterpillars today!
👉 Contact us today for professional puss caterpillar removal in Orlando and surrounding areas. Don’t take a chance with venomous pests—let us handle them for you!
