"furry puss" caterpillar (Megalopge opercularis) - Ask Extension
Are these common in Sussex County, DE? I found one in my Lewes DE backyard this morning and had never heard of them before. It's now in a paper cup...
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"furry puss" caterpillar (Megalopge opercularis) #717927
Asked August 26, 2020, 4:01 PM EDT
Are these common in Sussex County, DE? I found one in my Lewes DE backyard this morning and had never heard of them before. It's now in a paper cup in case anyone wants it. Painful encounter! These
could be a health hazard to unaware gardeners.
could be a health hazard to unaware gardeners.
Sussex County Delaware
Expert Response
Hi! Thank you for your question. Sorry to hear about your encounter. Yes, we do have stinging caterpillars here in Delaware. We don't usually see them very often, but they are here. I hope these two articles are helpful. Best regards, Tracy
http://kentcoopextension.blogspot.com/2008/09/landscape-puss-caterpillars.html
https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/StingingCaterpillarsIn...
http://kentcoopextension.blogspot.com/2008/09/landscape-puss-caterpillars.html
https://extension.umd.edu/sites/extension.umd.edu/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/StingingCaterpillarsIn...
Thank you for your prompt reply with the useful links. I will print out the information and share it with my neighbors and my primary care physician!