Subject: Interesting Ohio find
Location: Central Ohio USA
September 14, 2014 12:22 pm
Just the obvious questions of “What the blank is this?” and “Can it hurt me?” come to mind when looking at this. It caused my sister’s adrenaline to pump and just about everyone else’s skin to crawl, but I suspect it’s a harmless (to humans) caterpillar. Unless you eat it maybe?
Signature: Jack
White Marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar
Dear Jack,
This is the caterpillar of a White Marked Tussock Moth, Orgyia leucostigma, and according to BugGuide: “CAUTION: Avoid handling the caterpillar, as its hair is known to cause allergic reactions, especially in areas of the body with sensitive skin (e.g. back, stomach, inner arms). Seek medical treatment if a severe reaction occurs.”
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How can I get rid of them ? There on my trees .
We do not provide extermination advice.