Spending time outdoors is a popular pastime for many Mississippians. However, there are a few risks when mingling with Mother Nature – and the spiny buck moth caterpillar is one of them. As creepy as it sounds, the caterpillar delivers a sting that can actually be pretty serious to those who are allergic. Read on to learn more about this creepy crawler.

Summertime means a lot of things in Mississippi, including the arrival of the buck moth caterpillar.
Judy Gallagher/Wikimedia
Not just in Mississippi, the buck moth caterpillar can be found from Texas to Florida and throughout the east coast.
Fearsome-looking critters, buck moth caterpillars are about 2” long and armed with rows of branched spines.
J Maughn/Flickr
A menacing appearance isn’t the only reason to avoid the buck moth caterpillar, though. There’s also the fact that it stings!
Hillel at Emory University/Flickr

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The caterpillar uses its plethora of spines to puncture skin and deliver venom that causes instant pain, burning, and swelling.
JanetandPhil/Flickr
For those who are highly allergic to insect stings and bites, the ramifications can be much more serious and may require medical attention.
Most stings are caused by someone accidentally sitting on a buck moth caterpillar. However, even the slightest touch from a buck moth caterpillar, such as being grazed by one falling from a tree, can result in a sting.
Judy Gallagher/Wikimedia
So, what can you do to avoid the buck moth caterpillar? Experts recommend being observant, especially when near oak trees, since that’s what the caterpillars feed on.
Pat O’Malley/Flickr

So, did you know about these creepy caterpillars? Ever seen one? Or worse, been stung by one? Tell us in the comments section.

Running into a stinging caterpillar isn’t the only risk you take by living in the Magnolia State. Read about others here.

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