Tag Archives: puss caterpillar

Asp a.k.a. puss caterpillars

These have been a hot news item lately in Central Texas.  I did a news interview & Facebook Live broadcast yesterday to talk about them. While these teardrop shaped caterpillars look soft and touchable, they are NOT! Asps have spines attached to venom glands that can lead to a nasty sting, rash, and other issues. Some people may have a more severe reaction than others and where you are stung (thickness of the skin) can effect things. You can read my previous post on asps HERE. KVUE story… Read More →

Asp caterpillars

I’ve been hearing reports of people being stung by asps (puss caterpillars). The larva is the problematic stage for this insect as the caterpillars often fall out of trees and land on unsuspecting people below. When this happens, the person may get stung. The caterpillar has venomous spines which can cause a varying reaction. There are some people who react more severely to the toxin than others. The severity of the sting can also depend upon the thickness of the skin where the sting occurs. Often stings will… Read More →