Leslie Howe took her infant and two other children to Gwinnett County Park on a sunny day to enjoy the weather. They were peacefully sitting on a bench when their tranquility was interrupted by an unfamiliar creature, nearly hidden beneath a delicate layer of fur. Curious, the kids were tempted to touch it, assuming it was harmless. However, Leslie’s motherly instincts kicked in, and she refrained due to a sense that something was amiss.
This cautious decision proved wise, as they encountered a “pus worm,” a venomous caterpillar species capable of causing severe pain upon contact, even with a gentle touch. This creature’s bite could lead to nausea and profuse sweating, especially in young children.
