Berkshire Residents, Don’t Touch This Cute And Fuzzy Caterpillar

Fall has arrived in the Berkshires; however, outdoor activity hasn't halted yet with temperatures still in the mid 50's and 60's.

Like most 3 year-olds, my son, Liam, loves to be outdoors and loves to touch EVERYTHING. Last fall; however, he learned a valuable lesson...not to mess with (touch) the American Dagger Moth Caterpillar!

This inviting, seemingly harmless little furry creature left him with a nice little burning and itchy rash that lasted for awhile. The toxin containing bristles can break off and embed in the skin.

The large adult American Dagger Moth may seem harmless, but its bristly, stinging caterpillar has a reputation for teaching small children not to touch everything they see. -insectidentification.org

The American Dagger Moth Caterpillar can hang around until early November.