10/01/2026
Y’all!!! Just because something is cute and fuzzy, doesn’t mean it’s ok to touch it.
Found a fuzzy caterpillar? Here's which ones to leave alone.
Texas A&M AgriLife entomologists use a simple rule: if a caterpillar looks fuzzy, don't touch it. A few carry stinging spines or irritating hairs, and some of the worst look the softest.
Hands off:
- Saddleback — green "saddle" with a brown spot, spiny ends. Most often found in late summer and fall.
- Hickory tussock — white and fluffy with black tufts. Its hairs can leave a rash.
- Puss caterpillar — a soft-looking tan or gray teardrop. AgriLife calls it perhaps the most painful caterpillar in Texas. Mostly in the South.
- Io moth — bright green and spiny, with a red-and-white side stripe.
Fine to watch:
- Monarch — smooth, striped yellow, black and white.
- Black swallowtail — smooth and green, with black bands and yellow dots.
- Woolly bear — black and rust bands. Still, wash your hands after.
If you get stung: press tape on the spot and peel it off to lift the spines, wash with soap and cool water, and use ice. Get medical help for severe pain or an allergic reaction.
Fuzzy means hands off.
