Venomous Caterpillar Strikes In Phoenixville

Phoenixville-area residents have reported the presence of a poisonous caterpillar.

Although the saddleback caterpillar is endemic to much of the eastern United States, it is perhaps more frequently found in warmer climes, such as Florida and Georgia, where it likes to feed on ornamental plants, according to the University of Florida.

A Mont Clare resident recently brushed up against the caterpillar with a wrist and reported numbness in his arm for four hours.

Severe cases of stings from the caterpillar can cause shock, nausea, and a painful and swelled rash.

If stung, make every effort to remove spines that may become embedded in your skin. Make sure you wear work gloves.

Image courtesy Diane Merrill Ferko.