Megalopyge opercularis is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It has numerous common names, including southern flannel moth for its adult form, and puss caterpillar, asp, Italian asp, fire caterpillar, woolly slug, opossum bug, [3] puss moth, tree asp, or asp caterpillar.

Adult puss moths emerge in late spring or early summer to lay several hundred eggs on favored host trees, such as oaks, pecan, elm, hackberry and other trees. Caterpillars may also be seen feeding on dwarf yaupon and other shrubs.

2025年3月7日 · The southern flannel moth caterpillar is the unique looking larval form, and it goes by many names: puss moth caterpillar, tree asp, and woolly slug. More important than its varied nomenclature is the fact that the larval, or caterpillar, form is also super venomous .

Puss moth caterpillars (Megalopyge opercularis), of the order Lepidoptera, are also known as asps. They are one of the most toxic caterpillars in North America. Puss moth caterpillars are endemic to the southern United States and live in shade trees and shrubbery around homes and schools and in parks.

2021年10月26日 · The best-known flannel moth and stinging caterpillar in Texas is the puss moth caterpillar, Megalopyge opercularis, commonly called an “Asp.” This caterpillar is often abundant and may infest shade trees and shrubbery around homes, schools, and in parks.

2023年9月3日 · The puss moth caterpillar, also known as the asp caterpillar, is known for its deceivingly cute appearance and its potent sting. They can be found in the southern United States and are considered one of the most toxic caterpillars in North America.

The venomous puss moth caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis; also called the asp) is present in the southern United States. It is teardrop shaped and has long silky hair, making it resemble a tuft of cotton or fur.

2023年7月13日 · Scientists at the University of Queensland in Australia decided to find out. The team revealed that the venom of asp caterpillars, also known as puss caterpillars, contains a special protein that...

2025年2月25日 · Asp caterpillars, also known as flannel moth caterpillars, have a distinctive appearance. They are typically fuzzy, with long, stiff spines or setae (singularly seta) covering their bodies. Their coloration and patterning can vary depending on the species, but many have bright and contrasting colors, such as yellow, orange, white, and black ...

Adults have siphoning mouths. Caterpillars feed on leaves of many shrubs and bushes, such as hollies. Adults moths can be collected at lights. Pest Status: The caterpillar is called an “asp” by Texans, although there are other caterpillars that also produce a painful skin rash from contact with venom containing spines. Hypersensitive ...