Stingers · SWFL Pest Identifier
Io Moth Caterpillar
Keep an eye on it Fine in small numbers — repeated sightings mean a source.
How to identify it
- Neon green with a red-and-white racing stripe
- Branched spines all over
- On oaks, hibiscus, and many shrubs
Size
Medium (dime to quarter)
Where you'll see it
Lawn / garden
Looks like
Worm / caterpillar
Did you know
It grows into a moth with huge false "eyes" on its hindwings — one of Florida’s prettiest transformations from one of its spiciest caterpillars.
What it means for you
Spines sting like nettles. Look, photograph, don’t pet.
Not sure this is your bug?
Text a photo and a licensed local tech will identify it for free — or run it through the interactive identifier.
Similar stingers in SWFL
Paper Wasp
Keep an eye on itOpen umbrella-shaped comb under eaves, no paper shell
Mud Dauber
Helpful — leave itOrgan-pipe or urn-shaped mud tubes on walls
Yellowjacket
Worth a pro lookGround nest — steady traffic in and out of a hole in the yard
Honey Bee (swarm)
Helpful — leave itFuzzy, golden-brown, carries pollen on hind legs
Dealing With This One?
Get a real price online in about 60 seconds — or text us a photo first and we'll tell you honestly whether it even needs treatment.