Catawba Worm Rash: Urticating Hairs from Other Caterpillars

Catawba worms (catalpa sphinx caterpillars) don't have urticating (stinging) hairs. A rash after contact likely came from a different caterpillar (e.g., io moth, saddleback, buck moth) or plant irritant.

What to Do

1. Wash area with soap and cool water.
2. Apply hydrocortisone cream for itching.
3. If severe swelling/difficulty breathing, seek medical care.
4. Learn to ID stinging caterpillars in your area.

Catawba worms are prized fishing bait—consider collecting for bait shops.