Megalopyge opercularis - Wikipedia
Megalopyge opercularis is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It has numerous common names, including southern flannel moth for its adult form, and puss caterpillar, asp, Italian asp, fire caterpillar, …
Asps and Other Stinging Caterpillars - Insects in the City
In Texas these caterpillars are commonly known as “asps”. This caterpillar is often abundant and may infest shade trees and shrubbery around homes, schools, and in parks. They are of minor …
Scientists Reveal Why Asp Caterpillar Stings Are So Excruciatingly …
Jul 13, 2023 · Asp caterpillars spend most of their time innocently crawling along the branches of oak and elm trees in North America. But when these hairy creatures come into contact with humans, they …
Puss Moth Caterpillar (Asp) Stings - The Merck Manuals
Puss moth caterpillars (Megalopyge opercularis), of the order Lepidoptera, are also known as asps. They are one of the most toxic caterpillars in North America. Puss moth caterpillars are endemic to …
Everything you need to know about the venomous asp caterpillars ... - Chron
Apr 6, 2020 · Despite their harmless-looking appearance, asp caterpillars, or Megalopyge opercularis, are considered North America's most venomous caterpillar species.
What Is an Asp Insect? The Venomous Asp Caterpillar
Jan 8, 2026 · Identify the venomous Asp Caterpillar, the larval stage of the Puss Moth. Understand its toxic appearance, life cycle, and critical sting treatment.
Puss Caterpillar - NC State Extension Publications
May 8, 2023 · Puss caterpillars, Megalopyge opercularis, are also called asp caterpillars because of their potent stings. They are called puss caterpillars because their thick, fluffy setae resemble the fur …
Identifying the ASP Caterpillar: A Comprehensive Guide
Sep 14, 2023 · In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the different aspects of this unique caterpillar, including its characteristics, habitat, identification, impact on the ecosystem, and safety …
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Asp Caterpillar Insect Facts - A-Z Animals
Feb 25, 2025 · An asp caterpillar is a type of caterpillar that can be found in various regions of the world, including North America. They are known for their venomous spines, which can cause skin irritation …
Puss Caterpillar or "asp" - Field Guide to Common Texas Insects
Puss caterpillar or “asp”, Megalopyge opercularis (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Megalopygidae). Photo by Drees. Description: The caterpillars grow to about 1 inch long and are furry in appearance, being …
What Do Asp Caterpillars Turn Into - blog.entomologist.net
Nov 8, 2025 · Asp caterpillars, also known as puss caterpillars or southern flannel moths, are a member of the Megalopygidae family and can be found in North America’s oak and elm trees. They are …
What Does an Asp Caterpillar Sting Look Like? - Biology Insights
These caterpillars typically measure between 1 to 1.5 inches in length. Its soft fur conceals dense, venomous spines. These caterpillars are most commonly found in the southern United States, …
Asp Caterpillar: The Cuddly Menace to Your Backyard Oasis
Jul 18, 2022 · Discover the unique physical characteristics, species overview, habitat, behavior, and interactions with ecosystems of the intriguing asp caterpillar. Spotting an asp caterpillar can be an …
Why Do Asp Caterpillars Cause So Much Pain
Nov 28, 2025 · The venom of asp caterpillars, also known as puss caterpillars, contains a special protein that can form into a ring shape and poke holes in cells. This causes extreme throbbing pain, burning, …
Megalopyge opercularis - Facts, Diet, Habitat & Pictures on ... - Animalia
Megalopyge opercularis is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It has numerous common names, including southern flannel moth for its adult form, and puss caterpillar, asp, Italian asp, fire caterpillar, …
One of the nation's most toxic caterpillars returns to Texas
Jul 7, 2023 · The unwelcome visitor is commonly known as the asp caterpillar, megalopyge opercularis. Despite its inviting, fluffy appearance, the asp happens to be one of the most venomous caterpillars in...
Are Asp Caterpillars Poisonous? The Dangers of Their Sting
Dec 5, 2025 · The asp caterpillar, commonly known as the puss caterpillar, is the larval stage of the Southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis). Despite its deceptively soft, furry appearance, this …
Puss Moth Caterpillar Stings - The Merck Manuals
The venomous puss moth caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis; also called the asp) is present in the southern United States. It is teardrop shaped and has long silky hair, making it resemble a tuft of …
Megalopyge Opercularis | myadlm.org
Megalopyge opercularis, commonly known in Texas as an “asp” is one of the most toxic caterpillars in North America. Also known as puss moth caterpillars, the larva are teardrop shaped from 1 to 1.5 …