Frequently Asked Questions About Insects - Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University

Frequently Asked Questions

Topic:	Caterpillars, stinging
Question:	Yesterday I encountered a caterpillar that stung me. It was black with small white spots all over it. At a closer look, what looks like hair appeared more like tiny barbs. These barbs are small and spaced apart but have smaller ones sprouting off each individual barb. No trace of yellow stripes on its back. I accidentally brushed against it in the house and it left a burning sensation on my leg. When trying to find what caused my pain, my hand apparently got close enough to get stung. The burning, swelling, and slight rash lasted a couple of hours and eventually went away. The sting marks remain and is slightly painful to the touch. I was unable to locate this particular caterpillar on any Web site so far. Can you help?
Answer:	It is difficult to tell exactly which caterpillar stung you without seeing it or a picture of it. Many caterpillars will sting if you put your arm on them. Most are quite harmless until trapped. The identification may be further complicated if the caterpillar is not fully grown. Most identification requires a mature caterpillar. If you want to get a better identification, you could ship the caterpillar here to: Extension Entomology 412 Heep Center College Station, TX 77843-2475 Alternatively you might want to try to raise it yourself. If you get an adult it should be easier to identify.
Related Link:	http://citybugs.tamu.edu/insects/Ent-1033.html
Related Link:	http://citybugs.tamu.edu/insects/Ent-1012.html
Image Link: **
Response by:	John A. Jackman
Title:	Professor and Extension Specialist
** Most of the Related Links above also contain images.

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