At the county fair this week I spoke a couple of people that were inquiring about stinging caterpillars.
There are caterpillars that deliver ferocious stings generally in late summer and fall most notably the puss and saddleback caterpillar. These caterpillars are prevalent during late summer and do sting! These two have stings that have sent many to seek medical help, especially the very young and elderly.                                                  The puss caterpillar is often found on oaks but can be found on other tree species such as plum, elm, sycamore and rose. It has yellow to reddish­ brown or gray hair and is not found in large numbers. It gets its name from its furry appearance.  Be wary of this caterpillar; it delivers a very powerful sting often sending its victim to seek medical attention. Hidden among those furry cat­like hairs are poisonous spines.  It is not uncommon for victims to spend time in the emergency room for treatment.                                                 Another caterpillar that delivers a powerful sting is the saddleback caterpillar.  The caterpillar is very small, blue green insect with a brown or black spot in the middle of its back. The insect can be found inconspicuously on many trees and ornamentals shrubs around the home. Both the puss and saddleback caterpillar are found in small numbers causing minimal damage to host plants.                                                          A person stung by a poisonous caterpillar should immediately wash the affected area to remove any insect hairs and poison that remain. An ice pack will help reduce swelling, and creams and lotions containing steroids will lessen the discomfort and promote healing. Persons known to be sensitive to insect stings should consult a physician. Stinging caterpillars rarely occur in sufficient numbers to be considered plant pests, but people who work with ornamental plants should learn to recognize them and avoid touching them.

 Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. For archived garden columns or other information, visit the Rowan County Master Gardener web site at www.rowanmastergardener.com , e-mail Darrell_Blackwelder@ncsu.edu