Southern flannel moth (caterpillar), commonly known as a Puss Caterpillar
Scientific Name: Megalopyge opercularis
Order & Family: Order Lepidoptera, Family Megalopygidae
Size: Approximately 1 inch to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Found in the southeastern and central United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America on deciduous trees and shrubs such as oaks, elms, and wild roses.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae feed on a variety of broadleaf trees and shrubs, consuming foliage.
Behavior Patterns
The caterpillar is covered in long, silky hairs that conceal venomous spines. They go through several instars before spinning a cocoon to pupate and eventually emerge as a fuzzy moth.
Risks & Benefits
High risk to humans; the hidden spines are hollow and contain venom that causes severe, painful stings, skin inflammation, and potentially systemic symptoms like headache or nausea if touched. They have minimal ecosystem benefits other than serving as a food source for specific predators.
Identified on: 1/10/2026