On a sunny day at Gwinnett County Park, Leslie Howe and her three children paused on a bench,

unaware they were moments from an extraordinary encounter. Nearby rested a small, furry creature so soft and plush-looking it could’ve

been mistaken for a toy. The children wanted to touch it, but Leslie hesitated — a mother’s intuition that turned out to be lifesaving.

What they’d found was a Puss Caterpillar, one of the most deceptive insects in the South. Despite its cute, fuzzy appearance, it hides

venomous spines beneath its silky coat. A single touch can cause severe pain, rashes, and even burning sensations. Experts warn these

caterpillars—common in states like Virginia, Florida, and North Carolina—blend easily into benches, branches, and leaves, catching people off guard.

Leslie’s caution spared her children from a painful sting and taught them a lasting lesson: not everything beautiful in nature is safe to touch.

The encounter became a memorable reminder for all outdoor explorers — admire, but don’t handle what you don’t recognize. That simple moment

of curiosity and restraint turned into a powerful story of awareness, safety, and respect for the hidden dangers of the natural world.