Processionary Caterpillar (Bag-shelter moth)

Description:

Do not handle! The processionary caterpillars follow each other head-to-tail, forming long chains in late summer and autumn. Sometimes called “itchy grubs”, their dense hair will cause intense dermatitis and can result in severe allergic reactions.

Habitat:

Spotted in dry sclerophyll forest. Found in open forest, woodland and savannah with wattle, Australia-wide

Notes:

The adult female and egg masses of this moth can also induce skin reactions . Even the hairs on the cast skins of larvae are dangerous. These caterpillars travel in long chains when they leave the trees to pupate.