Rockfish Crew: Crawling Critters!

 

Buck Moth caterpillar - Hemileuca maia

 

Thanks to Christina W. for the pictures on this post and the following commentary:

The caterpillar was spotted (no pun intended :) ) near one of the waterbars Mark and Lisa were building on Section One.  It appears to be a Buck Moth (Hemileuca maia).  Here's another sighting from Augusta County:  Buck Moth caterpillar  
 
The critter's impressive spines are hollow and are connected to poison glands. Contact with the spines can cause a burning sensation and inflammation as painful as a bee sting. The irritation can last several days and can be accompanied by nausea (I'm sure glad none of us experienced that!).   Here's some advice for anyone unlucky enough to come in direct contact with the spines: a strip of adhesive tape can be used over the affected area to remove the spines by applying and stripping it off repeatedly.  Afterwards, an ice pack may reduce the stinging sensation, and the area also can be treated with a paste of baking soda and water. Some individuals with a history of hay fever, asthma or other allergies may be more susceptible to the sting and should contact a physician.  (This last advice from Florida Poison Control Center).

The rattler was first heard, then seen, a little ways up the trail from Naughty Girl Creek.  The girth was huge, it had obviously dined well recently!

 

Note: This is Christina's second Timber Rattlesnake picture! You can see the first picture (April 2012) at this LINK

(All photos: Christina W.)