b. PUSS CATERPILLAR
(Megalopyge opercularis)
[Illustration: (unlabelled)]
Identification. The puss caterpillar is the larva of a lepidopterous
group commonly referred to as “flannel moths.” In some parts of the
United States the larva is incorrectly referred to as an “asp.” When
fully mature, the larvae are near white to dark gray in color, 2 to 3 cm
(0.8-1.2 in) long, and completely covered dorsolaterally with hairs that
cause them to resemble elongate tufts of cotton. Some of the hairs are
venomous, and when they penetrate the skin a “toxin” passes from an
underlying gland through the hairs at the points of contact. The color
variation of the larvae in this species is dependent upon larval age,
locality, and time of year. In Texas, where this species is most
abundant, the spring/summer generation of caterpillars is usually
lighter in color than the fall generation.
Distribution. This species has been recorded primarily from the
Southeastern States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia,
Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South
Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.
Biology/Behavior. In most of the southern area of its range, the puss
caterpillar is thought to have two generations per year. The first
generation develops in the spring and early summer, while the second
generation develops in the fall. After emerging from a cocoon and
mating, the female moth lays her eggs on a suitable host plant. In a few
days the eggs hatch into larvae, which develop by feeding on the leaves
of a wide range of trees and shrubs. The natural enemies of the puss
caterpillar usually keep its numbers under control; however, every 4 or
5 years the caterpillars become more numerous, and the number of
envenomizations associated with them increases.[66]
Avoidance/Control. Always wear protective clothing such as gloves and a
long-sleeved shirt when working in areas heavily infested with puss
caterpillars. During periods of _M. opercularis_ abundance, children
should be instructed to stay away from infested trees and shrubs and not
to handle caterpillars. If necessary, heavy puss caterpillar
infestations may be treated with an appropriate insecticide.