At first, I thought our son was just intrigued by a piece of tree bark — something about its pattern must have caught his eye. But in an instant, my husband bolted forward in alarm and pulled him away.
It turned out that what appeared to be an ordinary tree trunk was actually home to something far more dangerous — a cluster of venomous Lonomia caterpillars.
These caterpillars are among the most toxic in the world. Just brushing against them can trigger severe internal bleeding, unconsciousness, and in some tragic cases — even prove fatal. Children, seniors, and anyone with health vulnerabilities are especially at risk.
What makes them so deceptive is their appearance — they blend seamlessly into the bark, making it nearly impossible to notice them until it’s too late.
After we realized what we were dealing with, we immediately contacted local environmental authorities. Experts arrived quickly and safely removed the caterpillars. A warning sign was later posted near the tree to prevent others from making the same mistake.
Since that day, I’ve changed how I see the outdoors. Whenever I go for walks with my grandchildren, I bring gloves, a magnifying glass, and a small emergency kit. Being careful doesn’t mean being afraid — it means being prepared.
To all mothers and grandmothers out there: talk to your children and grandkids about dangers like this. A simple heads-up could make all the difference. Let’s protect not just our homes, but the future of our families — by passing on the wisdom that could one day save a life.
