If Touch This Bug, You Will Regret it

Don't say we didn't warn you. If you see it, don't touch it. The pain you will endure is worse than scorpion, jellyfish or bee. These scary bugs are called puss caterpillars.

Did I mention that they can also cause vomiting and convulsions? Well now you know and have been warned.

There is good news and bad news. The bad news is that the bug now has a presence in the Midwest, the good news is that is has not been reported in Illinois yet. Puss caterpillars have been located as close as Missouri. They also be found New Jersey to Florida and west to Arkansas and Texas. They are very common in Florida are are sometimes called a woolly slug. They are the most poisonous caterpillar in the United States.

So what will happen if you touch one? You could get stung! According to the Mental Health Board of Oak Park, if Puss Caterpillar stings you expect:

• Immediate, intense pain that often comes in waves.
• A swelling, itching rash of red blotches and raised ridges.
• Restlessness and anxiety.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Muscle cramps.
• Swollen glands.
• Symptoms of shock

Plus, just be touching them be aware that their fur is covered in venum. Gross!

Not a fun way to spend the weekend. If you plan on venturing out of town on vacation, be aware of these fuzzy pains!

Catch Mark Charvat on Q98.5 from 3 p.m to 7 p.m.. Follow him on Twitter, and Facebook.