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Puss caterpillar

Source: Public Health Image Library (PHIL). Richard F. Darsie Jr., PhD. Available online: http://phil.cdc.gov

The puss caterpillar, or woolly slug, is the most poisonous caterpillar in the United States. Its poison is hidden in hollow spines among its hairs. This hairy caterpillar is found in the southern states, ranging west through most of Texas and north to Maryland and Missouri. It feeds on shade trees such as elm, oak, and sycamore. Puss caterpillars vary in size from 1.2 in. (32 mm) to 1.4 in. (36 mm).

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Sean P. Bush, MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine, Envenomation Specialist
Specialist Medical Reviewer	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised	January 26, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 26, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.