China Posted September 8, 2008 Share Posted September 8, 2008 On my way into work this morning I caught a snippet of a story on the radio. According to the announcer a woman was "attacked" by a caterpillar on Kent Island. I immediately laughed because the way it was reported was so over the top. I pictured a vicious, savage caterpillar with sharp teeth leaping up and biting the poor defenseless woman. Something like this: Why is it so difficult for the media to report the facts without sensationalizing the story? Anyway, if you're interested, here is the story as reported in the local paper: Woman stung by caterpillar Allergic reaction sends her to ERBy M.J. NEUBERGER Staff Writer September 8, 2008 STEVENSVILLE A venomous caterpillar, found in a Kent Island backyard, sent a 40-year-old woman to the emergency room last week. Francis Breeding, integrated pest management consultant for the University of Maryland's Cooperative Extension office, identified the insect as the non-native puss caterpillar, or Meglopyge Opercularis, which he said transmits its poison on contact. He warned that an allergic reaction to the venom could be deadly and said residents should steer clear of the caterpiller, which is teardrop shaped, 1 to 1 inches long, covered with hair, and generally beige in color. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Burgold Posted September 8, 2008 Share Posted September 8, 2008 Have you never watched Mothra! Dear God man... never turn your back on caterpillars (and yes, I know technically Mothra didn't come from a caterpillar) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Xameil Posted September 8, 2008 Share Posted September 8, 2008 useless without pics Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Brave Little Toaster Oven Posted September 8, 2008 Share Posted September 8, 2008 Yeah, I've heard of this....its why I wont touch caterpillars. Some have venomous spikes on their body, and if you touch them, your hand will swell. If you dont get to a doctor in time, they have to amputate. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SlobberknockerSkinsFan Posted September 8, 2008 Share Posted September 8, 2008 Well it appears that this little booger is all over the eastern and southern US. Here's a website I found with quite a few testamonials as well as good close up pictures of it. Just don't touch the damn thing, and you'll be ok. http://www.bugsinthenews.com/puss_caterpillar_092602.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.