Experts Warn: Don't Touch These Fuzzy Florida Bugs

What you need to know about the Tussock moth caterpillar

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:10pm

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Tussock moth caterpillars have emerged in Florida, covering trees and structures as they search for places to make their cocoons. These hairy insects can give you a rash if you touch them, so experts recommend using gloves or an object to move them and avoid direct contact.

Why it matters

Tussock moth caterpillars are an important part of the Florida ecosystem, serving as food for many creatures. However, their irritating spines can cause skin irritation in humans, so it's important for residents to be aware of how to safely interact with them.

The details

The tussock moth caterpillars have little spines on their backs that can break off into the skin, causing irritation. Insect experts advise using gloves or a credit card to move the caterpillars, and warn that even their cocoons have the irritating hairs, so a broom should be used to clear an area of them once they have become moths.

  • Tussock moth caterpillars emerge this time of year in Florida.

The players

Adam Dale

An associate professor of Entomology at the University of Florida.

University of Florida

A public research university located in Gainesville, Florida.

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What they’re saying

“Caterpillars are an incredibly important piece of our ecosystem. They're food for all sorts of creatures.”

— Adam Dale, Associate Professor of Entomology

“They have little spines on them that can break off into your skin, causing irritation. They look like little brushes along their back, but those are the ones you don't want to come into contact with.”

— Adam Dale, Associate Professor of Entomology

The takeaway

While tussock moth caterpillars play an important role in Florida's ecosystem, their irritating spines pose a risk to humans. By using caution and avoiding direct contact, residents can safely coexist with these fuzzy bugs.