Warning over toxic hairy caterpillars lurking in the sand dunes

CRITTERS CAN CAUSE NASTY SKIN RASH IF TOUCHED

- BY LAYCIE BECK

VISITORS to the seaside are being warned to “steer clear” of rash-causing caterpillars.

Whilst nature-lovers and curious children may be tempted to pick up brown-tail moth caterpillars if they see them, East Lindsey District Council has issued a stark warning urging people not to touch them.

This type of caterpillar, which appears annually in coastal areas, is covered in tiny barbed hairs which contain a toxin. If touched, this can cause a “severe reaction” on human skin, such as a rash or in some cases blisters.