OCTOBER 10, 2015
by Chuck Bednar
It may look like a cute and cuddly little white insect, but it’s actually an invasive and venomous larvae that can cause an unpleasant skin rash. While it's typically found only in Canada, the creature has recently been spotted in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Known as the white hickory tussock moth, the mostly-white insect has fuzzy black spines which contain venom in order to ward off predators. However, the Associated Press (AP) pointed out that that toxin can also irritate human skin, causing a rash on contact.
While the spines can become embedded into your skin, leading to the rash, pest control experts state that in most cases the condition can be treated with conventional anti-rash medication and ice. If symptoms persist, however, they recommend going to the doctor for treatment. If you see this fuzzy little critter-- turn and run.
The white hickory tussock moth caterpillars have been spotted in Akron, Ohio, as well as in the cities of Pittsburgh and State Colleague, Pennsylvania, reports indicate. The good news, KDKA TV in Pittsburgh said, is that their caterpillar cycle is almost over, meaning that they should soon no longer be a threat, and by next spring, they will have all transformed into moths.
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