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.

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.

Jul 13, 2023 · 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...

Oct 26, 2021 · 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. They are of little importance as enemies of shade trees, but they can cause a severe sting.

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.

天社蛾毛虫（壳盖绒蠹）Megalopyge opercularis属于鳞翅目（lepidoptera），也称为ASPs。 这是北美洲最毒的毛虫，分布在美国南部。 天社蛾毛虫生活在居民区、学校及公园周遭的阴凉的树上或灌木丛中。 ASP每年会产两代，在春末和深秋出现两个高峰。

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.

May 8, 2023 · Puss caterpillars, Megalopyge opercularis, are also called asp caterpillars because of their potent stings. They are called puss caterpillars because their thick, fluffy setae resemble the fur of a pussycat. Adults are called flannel moths because of …

Sep 3, 2023 · Flannel moth caterpillars, also known as puss caterpillars or asp caterpillars, are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics. These caterpillars are known for their distinct appearance, which includes thick, fluffy setae that resemble a pussycat’s fur, giving them the name “puss caterpillars” Puss Caterpillar.