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It's venomous caterpillar season in Texas

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If you see a furry-looking caterpillar in your yard, do not touch it!

We're in the middle of asps season and if you're not careful you could get stung by one.

Gordon Henley is an animal care manager at the Cameron Park Zoo. He said these venomous creatures are normally found in bushes and trees.

"They feed on small shrubs, the new leaves, things like that that are easy for them to eat until they decide to go into a cocoon," Henley said. 

If you do touch one, he said the sting will cause an excruciating burning and aching sensation.

"Underneath the fur, they have a series of toxic spines, which is a form of protection for them for birds and other would-be predators," Henley said. "If you brush up against them, that's when the toxin in the spines is released and it can cause immense pain."

To treat the sting, Henley said you apply ice or take an oral antihistamine.

In some cases, you can have an allergic reaction and need to see a doctor.

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