What our daughter thought was a simple natural pattern on the tree turned out to be a dangerous group of poisonous caterpillars known as Lonomia.
These insects are masters of camouflage, blending so perfectly into the bark that they are often mistaken for moss or part of the tree itself.
Simple contact can be life-threatening.
Lonomia caterpillars are highly venomous.
Even slight contact — or accidental breakage of their tiny spines — can trigger serious reactions, including fainting, internal bleeding and, in extreme cases, death.
Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.
Thankfully, my husband reacted quickly and averted a disaster. We immediately contacted the environmental authorities, who responded promptly, carefully removed the caterpillars, and placed a warning sign on the tree to protect others.
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