Danger in a caterpillar.

Coffee harvest is upon us and we educate our volunteers on who not to pet. It is a dangerous little creature.

When a puss moth caterpillar rubs or is pressed against a person's skin, its venomous hairs are embedded, usually causing severe burning and a rash. Pain usually subsides in about an hour. Occasionally, the reaction is more severe, causing swelling, nausea, and difficulty breathing.