It is the season for beautiful caterpillars to be crawling around local yards. While most are harmless, both adults and children should be warned of the possibility of getting an itchy rash from touching a certain caterpillar that has been spotted in the Blue Water Area.
The American Dagger Moth caterpillar is a beautiful yellow caterpillar with long black hairs sticking out. It’s definitely the kind of natural wonder that a young child would want to pick up and show to Mom and Dad.
The caterpillar’s natural defense mechanism is to poison with toxins on its hairs. The dagger-like hairs can inject poison into the skin of someone who touches them. A fallen hair from the caterpillar can even cause a problem.
The reaction to the caterpillar’s toxins can include a stinging sensation that ends up as an itchy rash. There is rarely any long-term problem, and anti-itch ointments generally suffice for symptom control, but a sting can quickly ruin a nature walk or a gardening project.
Children should be warned not to touch the caterpillars and anyone moving the caterpillars should wear gloves.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
