Tussock Moth Caterpillars Make Unwelcome Return to Florida

Oh boy! Just what we need here in Fort Myers, more bugs like the marked tussock moth caterpillars! You know, I'm not proud, but when i was a small toddler I loved to eat caterpillars. I guess I should consider myself lucky. It could have been a bad situation.

There's a resurgence of the marked tussock moth caterpillars happening in Florida. It's causing quite a commotion. These tiny critters are falling from trees left and right, and crashing into your backyard barbecues.

But don't let their innocent looks deceive you. These caterpillars mean business, with their hairs that cling to your skin once they latch on.

According to FOX35, the experts at the University of Florida say the these Tussock Moth Caterpillars typically emerge around this time when they mature and then descend from their tree hideouts.

They're on a quest to find spots for spinning but aren't exactly the ideal guests for a sleepover. If you happen to encounter one of these spiky critters and get stung, it may hurt a little, but don't trip! Health professionals have some advice to help alleviate the sting.

Firstly, apply tape over the affected area. Peel it off to remove any irritating hairs or spines embedded in your skin. Follow up with a wash using soap and water to tidy things up.

If the sting is really bothering you, apply some ice to soothe the discomfort. Create a mixture of baking soda and water to relieve the itchiness.

However, keep in mind that these symptoms are serious! They can come on quickly and linger for a day or longer, so stay vigilant and avoid contact with caterpillars.

Keep in mind, bug-brained experts say that if you see hair protruding from a caterpillar, and it appears colorful... you might want to stay the hell away from it. You don't have to ask me twice. I've had my fill.

It's amazing how many people come to visit Florida without realizing the dangers that wait for them. The Florida bugs  are real. We already did 14 Animals in Florida That Can Kill You, so let's get smaller. Come to think of it, we talked about the six venomous snakes of Florida. I guess we're doing a trilogy. And not like a Star Wars trilogy where they go back and do prequels and then spin offs. I need to finish this series because it creeps me the 'f' out. You know what else creeps me out? Those giant frogs that sit in my driveway at night. I walk outside minding my own business and this big creepy bastard is staring at me.

As I said, let's get small. Here's the list of the creepy crawly things that could be hiding anywhere ready to ruin your day. Or maybe - end your life. Florida bugs. And before you start blowing me up in the comment section, I realize that spiders aren't bugs. Just stop it. Stop it. Ok?

These little bastards are the most dangerous when they swarm. Their attacks are especially bad when you're wearing flip flops and the bites when drive you nuts for a week. Some people are allergic to the venom. I'd advise those people to stay inside because a few bites from these guys can kill you.

What might be a harmless, annoying bite might be something a lot worse, like West Nile virus or. encephalitis. Want some more? Chikungunya, Dengue and Zika viruses as well as malaria.

Hold up, hold up - what? They come in other colors too? Well, not anywhere else. Just here in Florida. The Red Widow is only found in the pine scrub forests of Florida. Was it a Red Widow that bit you. Well, the muscle spasms might be a clue. I find as a cartoon they're less scary.

Yeah, don't try to pick one up, these thing are covered with venomous bristles. For most people the sting will suck. But if you get anaphylaxis, Well that can kill you.

You probably won't die if you get bit. Unless you're sick or very young. If you see one you can usually just back away, but if you run into one - not good.

Hey look, there's a third one of these things. Bite victims can experience debilitating muscle cramps, nausea, and high fevers for up to 24 hours after being bitten. Their venom  is 15 times more toxic than that of a rattlesnake.

Why not, let's do another. These things like to nest in cars and are twice as venomous as black widows. Fun, huh?

He looks like he's wearing a little shirt. Don't touch, the venom on those spines destroys tissue.

First of all, super gross name. It's so fluffy looking you just want to pet it. Don't. All of those cute little hairs are actually venomous barbs that often stick into the skin when touched.

Grab one and watch the swelling begin! And for an extra treat, The spines can break off and embed themselves in the skin, causing prolonged irritation until the barb is removed.

When I first moved into my house one of these was inside my pool cage one night. That Wasp & Hornet spray came in handy. The good? Getting bit by one of these will suck but isn't nearly as bad as others on the list. The bad? They are aggressive and will bring the fight to you.