Stinging Flannel Moth Caterpillar

Found in a Cecropia Tree. This is one of the most poisonous caterpillars that can be found in our continent and distributed from the southwestern United States, Mexico and Central America, is easily mistaken for a fluffy one but under their hairs are hidden thorns connected to poison glands. The skin contact with these spines can be a big mistake, producing all kinds of symptoms from irritation, rashes, blisters and swelling, nausea, abdominal pain, headache, shortness of breath, not to mention extreme pain. Victims often require hospitalization.