Gardening in Australia is a joy, but not everything in your outdoor space is as friendly as it looks. Some creatures in your backyard might look cute but pack a painful sting.

Could one of these 'adorable' critters be lurking in your garden right now?


The electric caterpillar, a brightly coloured insect that might catch your eye with its vibrant hues, is more than just a pretty sight.

Professional gardener Melita Rumley discovered just how deceiving appearances can be when she was stung by one of these critters while working on Magnetic Island in Queensland.


The sting left her with bumps on her skin that were not only 'stingy' but also reminiscent of an 'electric zap.'

This wasn't her first painful encounter with the electric caterpillar either; a previous sting had left tentacle-like marks on her leg that took three months to heal.

'I was working in a garden and as I crouched down it was squished behind my knee, I didn't realise it was there,' Melita recalled. 'The feeling was like an electric zap, I jumped back pretty quickly.'

'Don't take these little bad guys for granted!' she added.


These encounters serve as a stark reminder that even the most 'adorable' garden dwellers can be dangerous.

The electric caterpillar, which belongs to the limacodidae family, is known for its impressive spikes that can cause significant pain upon contact.

Entomologist Caitlyn Forster from the University of Sydney warns that the sting from these caterpillars is more painful than a bee sting and the discomfort lasts longer.


The electric caterpillar is particularly fond of certain plants, such as lilly pillies and various types of palm trees, which are common in Aussie gardens.

If you're a Queensland resident, especially in the north-east of the state, it's wise to be on the lookout for these critters.


If you do happen to get stung by an electric caterpillar, there are some important steps to follow:

1. Carefully remove the caterpillar hairs from your skin using adhesive tape – avoid using your hands as this can spread the venom.

2. Wash the affected area with soapy water and gently pat it dry.

3. Apply a cold compress to the area for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.

4. Use an antihistamine cream or take an oral antihistamine tablet to alleviate itching and discomfort.

5. Keep an eye on the sting for signs of an allergic reaction and seek medical attention if any serious symptoms develop.


Gardening should be a joy, not a hazard. By staying informed and taking precautions, you can continue to enjoy your garden while keeping safe from unwelcome stings.

If you have a story tip or have encountered similar garden pests, feel free to share your experiences with us in the comments below.
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