Bob Thomas

BEWARE THE VENOMOUS PUS MOTH CATERPILLAR

The pus moth caterpillar, locally called “buffalo,” is the larval stage of a nondescript brown moth.  The species is native to our area and common, sporadically appearing through the summer and early fall.

The caterpillars are triangular in cross section, and their colors range from whitish to dark brown, with the most common color being tan.

IMPORTANT

They are covered with relatively thick hollow “urticating” hairs that contain venom.  If the urticating hairs penetrate the skin, the venom can cause a reaction that, depending on the person’s sensitivity to insect venom, ranges from stinging discomfort to a medical emergency requiring a trip to the emergency room.

DO NOT TOUCH THEM. 

They will not attack, but you must be careful where you sit and place your hands when they are present.

Pus moth caterpillars are presently abundant on walls, benches and the sidewalks outside Ignatius Chapel at the paved circle.

USE CAUTION.