Do you spot this caterpillar during a walk through the dunes? Stay away from it: “Hair causes a rash and severe itching”

Imagine: you are enjoying a beautiful day at the coast and suddenly tears come to your eyes, your skin is full of rashes and you can’t stop scratching because of the itch. You probably just came into contact with a mongrel satin caterpillar. During this time of the year, you should keep an eye out for them around the dunes. But what exactly is this animal? Why is it a nuisance? And what is the best thing to do when you come into contact with it? Biologist Wietse Chanet tells.

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