Hairy Caterpillars are an invasive species that have very recently found their way to Seychelles, and in such a short time have grown into a serious problem. They have no natural predators in Seychelles, allowing them to breed rapidly, and as they grow into moths that can fly relatively far distances and spread their eggs across the islands.

The biggest problem with hairy caterpillars in Seychelles is that they are coated in stinging hairs, which have a negative effect on people and pets that come into contact with them.

At the very least, they cause rash and discomfort that lasts a few hours, and at the worst they can leave a painful rash which can turn into sores that lasts days. In worst cases, they can cause more severe reactions such as breathing complications, depending on the allergic sensitivity of the person that has been stung. This is due to the hair’s toxins having a swelling effect on the eyes and respiratory system.