The “fluffy centipede,” a peculiar creature often discussed online, has captured public attention due to its unusual appearance. This fuzzy organism, found in various outdoor settings, prompts curiosity and concern. Understanding its true identity can clarify its nature and potential interactions. This article explores the identity and characteristics of this intriguing invertebrate.
Identifying the Fluffy Centipede
The “fluffy centipede” is not a centipede; it is the puss caterpillar, the larval stage of the Southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis). This caterpillar has a distinctive teardrop or slug-like shape, measuring 1 to 1.5 inches long when fully grown. Its body is covered in dense, hair-like setae, giving it a soft, fluffy appearance resembling a tuft of cotton or a tiny Persian cat. The coloration of these caterpillars can vary, ranging from downy grayish-white to golden brown, or even a darker charcoal gray, sometimes featuring an orange streak along its back. The head and legs of the puss caterpillar are not visible from above, further contributing to its unique, uniform fuzzy look.
The Dangers of Contact
Despite its fluffy exterior, the puss caterpillar harbors venomous spines hidden beneath its “fur.” Each hollow spine connects to a venom gland, discharging venom upon contact. Brushing against the caterpillar can cause these spines to break off and embed in the skin, releasing their potent toxin.
The sting from a puss caterpillar is considered one of the most painful from any insect in North America, often causing immediate, intense throbbing pain that can radiate up the affected limb. This pain can sometimes be severe enough for individuals to mistake it for a heart attack, especially if the sting occurs on the torso. Beyond localized pain, other symptoms may include burning sensations, a red grid-like rash, swelling, nausea, headache, abdominal pain, fever, and in more susceptible individuals, even seizures or respiratory distress.
Should contact occur, prompt first aid is recommended to minimize symptoms. Carefully remove embedded spines by gently applying tape (such as cellophane tape) over the affected area and pulling it off. After removing the spines, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Applying an ice pack or a cold compress to the sting site can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter remedies like baking soda paste or calamine lotion may also provide soothing relief.
Habitat and Life Cycle
The puss caterpillar is primarily found throughout the southeastern United States, from Florida north to Maryland and west through Texas and into parts of Mexico and Central America. These caterpillars inhabit various deciduous trees and shrubs, preferring shade trees such as oaks, elms, hackberry, maple, sycamore, pecan, and citrus plants. They can be found in both wooded areas and urban landscapes, including gardens, schools, and parks.
The puss caterpillar’s life cycle involves several stages, beginning with eggs laid by the adult Southern Flannel Moth on host plant leaves. After hatching, caterpillars feed on foliage and grow through several larval stages, or instars, by shedding their skin. They undergo about 5-6 molts before reaching full size.
Caterpillars then spin a dense, tough cocoon, often on the host plant, where they spend winter in the pupal stage. Adult Southern Flannel Moths emerge from these cocoons in late spring or early summer, continuing the cycle. Two generations of caterpillars occur each year, with peaks of abundance often observed in July and October.