On a bench their attention was caught by a little creature completely covered in delicate fur. It looked like a bug tempting the childrens curiosity and making them want to touch it.
In Gwinnett County Park Leslie Howe decided to take a walk with her baby and two other kids. The warm sun made her want to enjoy the weather with her children.
However Leslies motherly instincts kicked in. She stopped her kids from touching the creature. It turned out to be a decision because I later realized that this peculiar creature was actually a “pus worm,”, from regular caterpillars because it can release venom strong enough to cause intense pain even through just contact.
When someone is bitten by the pus worm the consequences are severe causing vomiting and excessive sweating.
Being cautious is crucial when exploring the outdoors whether it be parks or wooded areas full of vegetation. Coming into contact, with this type of caterpillar should make you proceed with caution keeping a distance. This is especially important for children who’re more vulnerable to the sting of this small arthropod.
From Florida to North Carolina there are stories about children experiencing agonizing pain after encountering the toxic caterpillar native to the United States—the hairy pus caterpillar. These unsettling tales have been reported by news sources. Some people have mistakenly touched this creature while others have been injured when it falls from trees.
It’s important to share this warning with people as possible because we should prioritize caution, over recklessness when it comes to protecting our childrens well being.
