The saddleback caterpillar is easy to identify due to its unusual green and brown saddle marking, two spiny horns at either end, and two yellow eye-like markings on its head. Getting stung by one is more painful than you can imagine. Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. Orgyia definita: Entire eastern U.S. Finally, when its ready to pupate, the larvae can either be dark brown or dark green. For example, many caterpillars only feed on specific types of shrubs, plants, or trees. Additionally spines contain a toxin that can cause rashes of round, red, swelling welts that itch, and even tissue damage. This caterpillar has a characteristic trait of rolling up to defend itself. Black swallowtail caterpillars are large green larvae with black and yellow stripes around their segments. Recently molted male fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita) pupa (ventral view). ECLECTIC ELEMENTS (PWTH004.TAUPE Butterflight). You will also notice two characteristic black long horns at the head end and two shorter horn-like tails. Puss caterpillars are 2.5 cm long and covered with gray to brown hairs that conceal its head and mouthparts. Gilmer (1925) conducted histological studies of the urticating setae of Orgyia leucostigma and found that each seta has a venom gland at its base. A bizarre little insect that looks like a walking toupe and squirts venomous pus from knifelike spines is terrorizing Virginia this year, according to the state's Department of Forestry (VDoF).. Completed cocoon of fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita). Urticating hairs can be especially irritating when they get into your eye. The American dagger moth caterpillar is covered in yellow feathery spines with two pairs of long black spines on its back and a single black tuft of pencil-like hairs at its rear. The tiger swallowtail is an unusual caterpillar due to its dark green body, smooth surface, and distinctive eyespots on its head. it has a 2.8 to 3.9-inch wingspan and is the state butterfly of Florida. To identify the cloudless sulphur caterpillar, look for a green body with bluish-black dots, light yellowish short spines, and a yellow lateral band along its sides. The pipevine swallowtail caterpillar is a dark-brown, almost black caterpillar with fleshy horns at its head, tail, and sides. Red admiral caterpillars grow 1 (2.5 cm) long. Cloudless Sulphur caterpillar (Phoebis sennae). 2004. Photograph by Jerry F. Butler, University of Florida. Her expertise extends from weddings and animals to every pop culture moment in between. Definita is also lighter in body color than the other two species (Foltz 2004). The caterpillar has four sets of black prolegs and three sets of pointed forelegs. They grow around an inch long and can be found throughout Florida. This black and gray caterpillar feeds on passionflower foliage that helps it develop toxic compounds. These larvae are about 2 inches long. These small insects are one of the country's most venomous . The Florida cecropia moth caterpillar, is an easy-to-identify fat caterpillar that has pronounced segments with rows of blue and yellow fleshy bumps, black spikes, and several orange tubercles at its head. Megalopyge opercularis is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. The menacing stinging horns at either end of the caterpillar stand at 45. Most bugs and spiders native to Florida are not dangerous to people. The sex pheromones of Orgyia detrita and Orgyia leucostigma have been characterized (Grant et al. The Zebra Longwing ( Heliconius charithonia) butterfly is easy to recognize by the zebra-like pattern on its wings. This is a defensive characteristic of some caterpillars to scare off predators. Saddleback caterpillars grow up to 1 (2.5 cm) long. The white admiral caterpillar is a Florida caterpillar that looks like bird poop. Dermatologic manifestations of encounters with Lepidoptera. Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. Rash illness outbreaks at daycare facilities associated with the tussock moth caterpillar, April 2004 and April 2005. 1978. What You Need to Know About the Southern Flannel Moththe Country's Most Poisonous Caterpillar, Dream Team: Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson Spotted Cruising Through Dollywood in a Golf Cart, Check Out the New Rollercoaster Headed to Dollywood in Spring 2023, Jennifer Garner Brings Aid to Eastern Kentucky During Tour Of Flood-Ravaged Communities, County Fair Queen Linda Skeens Revealed! These caterpillars can be perceived as dangerous and poisonous given their color. Youll find tobacco hornworms feeding on tomato plants and other nightshade crops. Hairs in the cocoons retain their urticating capability for up to a year or longer. (Photo: Sturgis McKeever; Georgia Southern University; Bugwood.org). There are two puss caterpillar generations a year in Florida; one in spring and another in fall. White feathery spines also stick out from its sides. Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. They are usually found in protected places - in furrows in bark, undersides of limbs, in tree cavities, under loose bark, and often under the soffits of buildings. The wings of female pupae reach only slightly beyond the anterior margin of the fourth abdominal segment while those of male pupae extend nearly to the posterior margin of the segment (Mosher 1916). These projections have poisonous spines and the sting is a defensive mechanism to prevent predators from eating them. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Identify a tobacco hornworm by its fat green body with whitish diagonal stripes and tiny eye-like markings on its sides. Cabbage looper caterpillars grow up to 1.5 (4 cm). Fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita) caterpillar (dorsal view). Figure 22. Observations on the poisonous nature of the white-marked tussock-moth (. Saddleback caterpillars get their name from their saddle-like markinga square green patch with a large brown circle in the middle. If . Orgyia detrita (the fir tussock moth) is the most common of the species in Florida followed by Orgyia leucostigma (the whitemarked tussock moth) and finally Orgyia definita (the definite tussock moth), which is rare in Florida (Foltz 2004). Mature tussock moth (Orgyia sp.) Medina RF, Barbosa P. 2002. Like many hornworm caterpillars, it has an oversized head. Tobacco hornworm caterpillars grow 2.7 (7 cm) long. Annals of the Entomological Society of America 18: 203-239. Older larvae are leaf-edge feeders. Figure 21. Some exotic southern caterpillars have fleshy tentacle-like spikes that help with identification. Each spring there are reports about tussock moth caterpillars being abundant in northcentral Florida. Cruse K, Atrubin D, Loyless T. 2007. As the jaggy-looking caterpillar develops, it gradually becomes grayish-brown with dark red or brown dots along its sides. Orgyia sp. Pruritic welts and erythema resulting from rubbing hairs from the dorsal tussocks of the fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita) onto the authors forearm. Bagworms are identified by the bag-like structures measuring 0.4 to 6 (1 to 15 cm) long and made from tree foliage. 2009. 2003). It is one of those moths that have been found in every continent except Antarctica. The pain immediately and rapidly gets worse after being stung, and can even make your bones hurt," University of Florida entomologist Don Hall told National Geographic. Monkey Slug Caterpillar (Phobetron pithecium). Lepidoptera of Florida. The luna moth caterpillar grows to 3.5 (9 cm) in length. The black caterpillar has recognizable red bands visible in between sharp spines. Borror DJ. In the event of a possible plant poisoning, call your physician, veterinarian or Florida Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). However, they may occasionally be sufficiently numerous to completely defoliate large trees. As the imperial moth caterpillar goes through its instars, it gradually becomes darker and hairier. Fully grown, swallowtail caterpillars measure 2.1 (5.5 cm) long. Venomous puss caterpillars have poison control on alert. Here are some mildly poisonous caterpillars that are best to be stayed away from.. American Dagger Moth Acronicta americana. These large green or orange-brown caterpillars grow 3 to 5.5 (7.5 10 cm) long. Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. The caterpillars also have the trait of raising their front end when feeding. Stinging rose larvae measure about 1 (2.5 cm) long. Spiny Oak-Slug Caterpillar Euclea delphinii. Pipevine Swallowtail Caterpillar (Battus philenor). According to National Geographic, its venom is 15 times more potent than that of a rattlesnakethough, contrary to common myths, few people ever perish at the hands of the small spider. The stinging rose moth caterpillar is a colorful venomous caterpillar found along the east coast from New York to Florida. Lonomia, often considered to be the most venomous, is included in this subfamily. Because these caterpillars feed on spider webs, household debris including hair and fur, and use sand and insect parts to attach to its casing, frequent cleaning and vacuuming practices can help decrease potential food or nesting resources. Crystal River, FL 34429 Phone: 352-563-6363 For technical issues, email webadmin@chronicleonline.com. A Host-Parasite Catalog of North American Tachinidae (Diptera), Caterpillar-associated rashes in children. Although the fir tussock moth is not a highly familiar moth even to most entomologists, an image of an adult male does appear in a popular design used on ornamental paper, wall art, journal covers, purses, and fabric (Tim Holtz, personal communication). The caterpillar grows up to 2 (5 cm) long. Figure 24. Female fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita) applying secretion to her egg mass. Properties of a cytoplasmic-polyhedrosis virus from the white-marked tussock moth. Insects and Spiders. Orgyia leucostigma: Polyphagous. Dermatologic Therapy 22: 353-366. 632-633) listed the following tachinid parasitoids of Orgyia leucostigma: Bessa selecta (Meigen), Carcelia amplexa (Coquillet), Carcelia perplexa Sellers, Carcelia yalensis Sellers, Compsilura concinnata (Meigen), Drino inconspicua (Meigen)*, Euphorocera claripennis (Macquart), Euphorocera edwardsii (Williston), Exorista lobelia Coquillet (currently Nilea lobelia [Coquillet]), Exorista mella Walker, Leshenaultia spp., Lespesia aletiae (Riley), Lespesia frenchii (Williston), Patella leucaniae (Coquillet), Phorocera spp., Sisyropa spp., Winthemia datanae (Townsend), and Winthemia quadripustulata (Fabricius). All caterpillars in Florida are poisonous. The Io moth, like many of the other saturniid moths, is less common now in parts of its range. It has a black head and a lemon yellow body. 1979. Heppner JB. However, not all furry caterpillars are poisonous. The following wasp parasitoids of Orgyia definita and Orgyia leucostigma are recorded by Krombein et al. (Z,Z)-6,9-heneicosadien-11-one, labile sex pheromone of the whitemarked tussock moth. The caterpillars, known as browntail moths, are about 1.5 inches long and have white dashes down their sides and two red dots on their backs. Although tersa sphinx moths sometimes wander as far north as Canada, they mainly live in the tropics and in the southeastern states, from Texas to Florida and into North and South Carolina. Taming an invasive plant that's 8 feet tall and poisonous is no small feat, especially if you're a tiny moth. White Flannel Moth Caterpillar (Norape ovina) The mature white flannel moth caterpillar can reach 1-1/4 inch in length. White-Marked Tussock Caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma). When human skin or those of pets are exposed to these excretions, it results in allergic reactions and in other cases . 1960. The Moths of America North of Mexico Including Greenland. 7 Poisonous Caterpillars in Florida (Venomous) by Critter Hideout Caterpillars are well known as the leaf-eating larva of various butterflies and moths. However, there are techniques a homeowner can use to decrease the pressure by the Household Casebearer. Also called tent worms, forest tent caterpillars are easy to identify in spring and summer when they are active. There is little doubt that Orgyia detrita and Orgyia definita also have many parasitoids. The puss or asp caterpillar of the southern flannel moth is recognized as one of the most venomous species found in the U.S. and its sting . Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. Banded Woolly Bear Caterpillar (Pyrrharctia isabella). Welts resulting from contact with Orgyia hairs usually appear within minutes and subside by the next day, but itching and erythema commonly continue for another day or two. To identify tent worms, look for blackish-brown worm-like caterpillars with blue, black, and yellow lines running lengthwise on their back with an irregular white pattern on each segment. These caterpillars have stinging hairs in a row along each side as well as some on their front and back ends. Forest Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria). Last year, the Florida Poison Centers got 393 calls about people stung by. Figure 1. Figure 9. A few species are known to sting, which can cause mild skin irritations, but none contain venom that may be harmful to people. Redrawn from Gilmer (1925) by Jane C. Medley, University of Florida. Adult moths tend to leave behind feces, eggs, and cocoons that remain after the caterpillar hatches. has been confirmed as a host in Florida, but other host plants are also likely (Heppner 2003). They might look cute and fuzzy, but don't let their innocuous appearance fool you. Buck moth caterpillars have a dark form and a light form; both forms have dark, lateral rows of multi-branched spines along their backs. You can also call Miami Poison Control at 800-222-1222. Spines have a toxin gland at the base that is released when spines break off into the skin. Zebra Longwing Caterpillar (Heliconius charithonia). The characteristics of the red admiral caterpillar that helps identify it are a shiny black body covered in bands of spiny spikes. pupa with spatulate setae. Caterpillars of Eastern North America. You can find the furry puss caterpillars in most southern states, including Florida. SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health issued an alert for hairy caterpillars. The giant leopard caterpillar has a fuzzy appearance, and its spiked body can be painful if the spines jag your skin. Cabbage looper caterpillars are identifiable by their thin lime-green or yellowish-green body and arching action when moving. The distinctive caterpillar can look like a dead hairy spider or old leaf. Youll also notice feathery spines on this striped Florida caterpillar. Detrita also lacks the whitish tornal spot of leucostigma and definita (Ferguson 1978). ENY-276. Also, large numbers of larvae blown onto small landscape trees may result in severe defoliation. University of Florida. ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. It may be only an inch long, but you should still be sure to stay away from puss caterpillars in Florida. Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. These caterpillars feed on a large variety of plants but are most commonly found on citrus, oaks, and elms. 2 Red Widow Spiders Premaphotos / Alamy Stock Photo Stings from this caterpillar are milder than the stings of other stinging caterpillars. Some less common ones also occur in the state. Poisonous spider bites can cause major illness or even death. Gainesville, Florida. Journal of Investigative Dermatology 34(1): 67-79. Other features of the redhumped moth caterpillar are its cherry-red round head, soft horn-like growths, and light, feathery spines. Most common in Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states (Ferguson 1978, Orgyia definita entry at North American Moth Photographers Group web site). Although it looks like a stinging caterpillar, the banded woolly bear doesnt sting and isnt poisonous. Another unusual feature to identify the tiger swallowtail caterpillar is its defensive organ (osmeterium) on its head. Next apply ice packs to reduce the stinging sensation and slather on a paste of baking soda and water. Allergic reactions may occur and symptoms should be closely monitored. These caterpillars are covered in soft hairs that seem like fun to touch but fight the urge! Images of butterflies and moths are common in movies, art, jewelry, and fabrics. The spiny oak slug caterpillar is a colorful larva with jagged spikes around its body and four pairs of upward-pointing spiked orange horns. Parasitoids of Orgyia detrita and Orgyia definita have not been well-studied, but those of Orgyia leucostigma are well documented. The gulf fritillary caterpillar is an orange caterpillar with spiny spikes around each segment. American dagger moth caterpillars grow up to 2 (5 cm) long. 15 pp. The stinging spines of this caterpillar contain poison that can cause a stinging sensation if you touch them. It is uncommon in the northern parts of its range. Immediate, excruciating pain is inevitable and should be expected. Pain should begin to decline after a couple hours and swelling declines after about 8 hours. Rather, a black widow bite can cause muscle aches, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Intense throbbing pain develops within five minutes of contact with pain extending up the affected arm. Queen Butterfly Caterpillar (Danaus gilippus). The buck moth caterpillar also has a rounded shiny black head. White Admiral Caterpillar (Limenitis arthemis). Others, like that of the Black Widow, cause vomiting and diarrhea, paralysis, drunken gait, and muscle tremors. The itch and welt could last up to a day, but it varies between individuals. 2003, Gries et al. The tiny brown hairy caterpillars grow up to 1 (2.5 cm). Photograph by Donald W. Hall, University of Florida. Figure 18. As the long-tailed skipper caterpillar matures, its body becomes pale green, and it develops pinkish patterns. One of the strangest green caterpillars youll find in Florida is the spicebush swallowtail larvae. Figure 16. Volume 17 of Arthropods of Florida and Neighboring Land Areas. The green and black stripes and orange markings make the voracious larvae easy to spot on azaleas, rhododendrons, and apple trees. Its spikes carry a high level of poison known to cause death. Figure 19. Spines are hollow with a toxin gland at the base. The University of Florida says that some caterpillar species have stinging hairs called urticating hairs. You will also notice that the yellow forester moth larvae have spiny tufts on their back and sides. Resident Joel Mathis told Orlando TV. According to the Virginia Department of Forestry health team, these . Spicebush Swallowtail Caterpillar (Papilio Troilus). Looking up close, you see that soft yellowish spines cover the prolegs and caterpillar abdomen. The yellow body is marked with wide black stripe down the back bordered with red at each end. These caterpillars do not possess stingers, but have spines (nettling hairs) that are connected to poison glands. Its body looks like a squashed hairy spider with leg-like protrusions of various sizes along its sides.