For thousands of years, humans have developed sharp instincts to avoid dangerous animals and creatures. Even though most animals are harmless, it’s always wise to stay alert, especially when you’re outdoors. This is a lesson that one mother, Leslie Howe, learned firsthand during what started as a normal day at the park.
In 2014, Leslie, a mother from Georgia, was enjoying a peaceful afternoon in Gwinnett County. She had brought her infant and two young children to the playground for some fresh air and fun. It seemed like any other day—until something caught her eye. Near her children, she noticed a strange, fuzzy, ball-shaped creature resting on the ground.
At first glance, it looked harmless, almost like a tuft of soft fur. But something about it made Leslie uneasy. Trusting her instincts, she decided to steer clear of it. That single decision turned out to be a lifesaver.
“It feels worse than a wasp sting,” Leslie would later say when describing what she learned about the creature.
The mysterious “fur ball” turned out to be no ordinary insect. It was a Megalopyge opercularis larva, better known as the puss caterpillar. Its soft, velvety appearance makes it look almost cuddly, like a small, furry animal—possibly why it’s nicknamed “puss.” But behind that deceptive exterior is a serious threat: venomous bristles hidden beneath the fur.
These caterpillars, which can grow to about an inch long, are found across much of the United States. They thrive on foliage in states from New Jersey to Florida and as far west as Texas. NPR once reported on these peculiar insects, noting that they were commonly spotted feasting on tree leaves.
What makes the puss caterpillar particularly dangerous is its sting. Touching it, even by accident, can cause excruciating pain. The bristles can stick to your skin and release venom, triggering an intense burning sensation.
“It’s much worse than a wasp sting,” said Don Hall, an entomologist. “People have reported the pain spreading all the way to their shoulders and lasting up to twelve hours.”
Leslie wasn’t the only one to encounter this unusual caterpillar. Eric Day, the manager of Virginia Tech’s Insect ID Lab, had his own run-in with it. He was mowing his lawn in rural Virginia when he accidentally got stung by one.
“The burning sensation was terrible,” Eric recalled. “The blister and irritated area stayed visible for weeks, but thankfully the burning only lasted about a day.”
The sting is no joke—it can even cause pain deep in the bones, depending on where the bristles stick and how many penetrate the skin. And while the puss caterpillar’s sting is rarely life-threatening, it can lead to serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
If you’re ever stung by one, there are steps you can take to ease the pain. The National Capital Poison Center recommends using tape to gently remove any bristles stuck in your skin. After that, wash the area carefully with soap and water. You can apply hydrocortisone cream or a baking soda paste to reduce itching. If the reaction worsens, seek medical help immediately.
Leslie decided to share her story as a warning to parents and outdoor enthusiasts. She hoped that by raising awareness, people would know to avoid the puss caterpillar and stay safe.
So, next time you see a fuzzy little creature outdoors, don’t let its harmless appearance fool you. Keep your distance and stay safe!
What do you think about this story? Have you ever encountered a strange insect or creature like this? Let us know in the comments below!
