Asp
Known around these
parts of Southeast Texas as an “asp”, the caterpillar of the Southern flannel moth (Megalopyge opercularis) hides poisonous spines within the pelt of hairs
that cover it. Labeled as the most
venomous caterpillar in the US, this harmless looking caterpillar has a sting
from that packs a wallop, which I have experienced personally. If I were to try
and describe its severity- it's akin to placing the business end of a lit
cigarette against your skin. I’ve read
that a good way to ease the pain is to remove any spines that were left behind
in your skin with a piece of cellophane tape.
Labels: amateur naturalist, asp, bugs, caterpillar, entomology, insects, Lepidoptera, Megalopyge opercularis, moth, natural history, naturalist, nature, nature photography, Texas insects
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