One reason burnet moths may not advertise how poisonous they are individually is that potential predators need no extra warning to leave them alone. Their wings are multi-colored – reddish brown on the tips and pale gray near the base. Moths and butterflies are potentially dangerous to people in one context: eating them. Because they are often found on trees and in plants and bushes, keep an eye out if you're near locations these caterpillars are known to frequent. Moths have a bad rep as being dull, drab pests, but these insects are fascinatingly diverse, from the huge Atlas moth to the caterpillars people eat! or "how can I get rid of moths?". Don't be fooled by caterpillars with colorful and fuzzy exteriors: They might be poisonous. These extreme pain-inducing spines protect the caterpillars, and once the caterpillars turn into moths, the poisonous spines disappear. A few butterflies and moths are poisonous. Related: All types of insects Anatomy of a Moth. Scientific name: Actias luna. It is found in Africa and some tribes will actually smash them up … This is a type of moth with lime-green colored wings and a white body, and is also often referred to as the American Moon Moth.It belongs to the Saturniidae family, also known as saturniids. There is a moth (moths being relatives of butterflies) called the, “N’gwa or ‘Kaa,” which has extremely toxic body fluids. The venom of this ant is believed to be the most toxic insect venom in the world. Giant silkworm moth larvae and flannel moth caterpillars are specifically noted for their ability to cause a painful sting. They are like ugly butterflies and some butterflies are ugly moths either way lepidopterans in the adult stage are harmless and fun to watch. Many are eaten by all sorts of creatures from spiders to bears. Pantry moths, also known as Indian Meal Moths, are the most common moth to infest food in North American homes. More: UK. Most types of moths are only poisonous if they’re consumed. While most butterflies and moths are likely non-toxic to hungry humans, a few species -- like the familiar monarch butterfly (Family Nymphalidae) -- feed on poisonous or unpalatable plants as larvae. Depends on the species. Yes, as mentioned before, there is a variety of moth species that secrete toxic fluid. Do poisonous Moth Species exist? Larvae are about a ½-inch long and can be yellow, pink, green or brown. Here are some expert advice to help you deal with a moth infestation in your house. Other moths have dust on their wings that cause skin irritation and affect the health of human beings. Will Eating Pantry Moths or Their Eggs or Larvae Make Me Sick? The moment when you see a moth in your house, you may ask yourself "are moths dangerous?" One of the single most poisonous insects of North America is the Maricopa harvester ant found in Arizona. Brown-Tail Moth via flickr/ajmatthehiddenhouse. Types of Moths Luna Moth. 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