TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Springtime ushers in an influx of an infamous Florida pest – and no, we’re not talking about lovebugs.
It’s that time of year when spiny white and yellow caterpillars drop out of oak trees, swarming cars and taking over porches across the state.
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The creatures are called tussock moth caterpillars, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History. There are a few different species that live in Florida and they look very similar with their hairy bodies and spikey tufts.
They may look cute and fuzzy, but a brush with a tussock moth caterpillar will leave someone with an itchy, burning rash. They may even leave some stinging hairs behind, which can be removed with tape.
Anyone who comes in contact with the bug can take the same over-the-counter medications that treat poison ivy for some relief.
The caterpillars drop from trees to find a place to build their cocoons, which can be found all over homes, park benches and anything else outside. They are spun with the same hairs that cause the
