In Texas these caterpillars are commonly known as “asps”. This caterpillar is often abundant and may infest shade trees and shrubbery around homes, schools, and in parks. They are of minor …

Megalopyge opercularis is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It has numerous common names, including southern flannel moth for its adult form, and puss caterpillar, asp, Italian asp, fire caterpillar, …

Jul 13, 2023 · Asp caterpillars spend most of their time innocently crawling along the branches of oak and elm trees in North America. But when these hairy creatures come into contact with humans, they …

Nov 12, 2018 · They look down and see there's just a leaf on the ground and that leaf can be, it's actually an asp caterpillar. Caterpillars look like leaves. They're brown and tear-like,” Hacker said.

Nov 24, 2025 · Texans are entering the time of year when one of the region’s most visually striking, yet venomous, insect is most abundant: the puss moth caterpillar, commonly known as the “asp.”

Jan 8, 2026 · The term “asp insect” refers to the Puss Caterpillar, the larval stage of the Southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis), particularly in the Southern United States. This name is …

Puss moth caterpillars (Megalopyge opercularis), of the order Lepidoptera, are also known as asps. They are one of the most toxic caterpillars in North America. Puss moth caterpillars are endemic to …

Sep 15, 2017 · Getting stung by an asp is an experience very few individuals will forget. The asp is known as one of the most dangerous stingers in North America since of its ability to deliver a severe …

Feb 25, 2025 · The asp (puss) caterpillar is the larval stage of the Southern flannel moth. Despite its soft, fur-like appearance, it has hidden venomous spines that can deliver a painful sting to humans …

Discover the Asp Caterpillar, one of the most venomous caterpillars in North America. Learn about its appearance, habitat, feeding habits, behavior, threats, and fun facts.