Subject: Yucatan Caterpillar
Location: Chuburna Puerto, Yucatan, Mexico
July 9, 2013 9:38 am
July 9th, 2013, 0915 hrs. Chuburna Puerto, Yucatan, Mexico
I came across a great number of these Caterpillars crossing an asphalt road near the Chuburna Marina. They all were traveling north to south, coming from a sandy beach area and headed into a swamp/marshy area. Who are these guys.
Thank YTM
Signature: YTM
Dear YTM,
We believe this is a Giant Silkworm Caterpillar in the genus Automeris, and there are many species in Mexico. We browsed the World’s Largest Saturniidae site and we believe this might be Automeris zozine, and we have contacted Bill Oehlke for his opinion. Caterpillars in the genus Automeris should be handled with caution as they have stinging spines.
Thanks, so much. Love your site. YTM
Bill Oehlke provides his input
Hi Daniel,
I believe it is Periphoba aracaei.
Any contact info so I can use image?
Bill
These have quite a sting to them. I stepped on one and also got stung through a denim shirt when somehow one got onto me. Coincidentally, I also live in Chuburná Puerto, and found this article while searching what had stung me today.
We just got stung in progreso. Very painful but not deadly. Exact same creature as the photo. Check all clothes that have been left outside and avoid.