Nettle Caterpillars in Hawaii

An illegal shipment of seedlings in 2001 may be the culprit for a new pest that is plaguing Hawaii, according to KITV 4 in Honolulu. The little critter damaging the crops is not the problem.

The stinging or "nettle" caterpillar gets it's name from the burning sensation you get when you rub up against it. The burn can last for hours, according to Neil Rheimer of the state Department of Agriculture.

KITV 4 reported that state officials in Hawaii do not want this type of pest to take up residence on the islands. The report said the caterpillars most likely came from a shipment from a nursery on the Big Island.

Rheimer was quoted by KITV 4 as saying,"It's possible it may already have spread, but it wouldn't just be this nursery. Anybody who is bringing plants from the Big Island is running this risk."

The nursery where the caterpillars were discovered is being monitored. Traps are being set up in the hopes of catching the moths responsible for the eggs.

Workers at the nursery complained last week about the burning sensation. According to KITV 4, the nursery is remaining anonymous at the moment.

Raphis palm trees are where the caterpillars were located. The trees have since been moved to another location.

Officials told KITV 4 that persons having these types of trees need to check them for the cocoons. They will be located at the base of the tree.

Rheimer was quoted about checking the trees. "This sort of material here, you just pull that back and you see a little brown thing about the size of a pea and that will be a cocoon," Rheimer said.

If you are stung by a caterpillar, you need to wash the area immediately. This will help with the intitial pain. An over the counter antihistamine can help with the itching. Use a topical hydro cortizone cream for relief of the burning. Reactions can vary from simple swelling to an inflamation that can last several days.

According to the report, state officials in Hawaii claim there is no telling as to whether the infestation in under control. If you feel you have these caterpillars or you see the cocoons, you are encouraged to call 1-808-643-PEST. That is the pest hot-line in Hawaii.

Source: KITV Honolulu; Stinging Caterpillars Turn Up On Oahu, http://www.thehawaiichannel.com/news/13465528/detail.html?cnn=yes