Norape sorpresa
Wagner & Matson, 2022
Norape sorpresa is a recently described of flannel in the Megalopygidae, first characterized by Wagner and Matson in 2022. Like other members of its , the caterpillars possess that can deliver painful stings when touched. The species belongs to a group of moths known for their concealed defensive structures beneath soft, hair-like setae. As a newly described , detailed information about its and distribution remains limited.

Pronunciation
How to pronounce Norape sorpresa: /nɔˈra.pe sorˈpre.sa/
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Human Relevance
The caterpillars of Norape , including N. sorpresa, possess that can cause painful stings, skin irritation, and blistering upon contact with humans. These stinging spines are concealed beneath a cloak of soft, hair-like setae. Reactions can include immediate burning pain, redness, swelling, and in some cases persistent rashes or blisters lasting days. Medical attention should be sought if allergic reactions occur or if spines contact mucous .
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Look but do not touch: puss caterpillar, Megalopyge opercularis; White flannel moth, Norape ovina; Io moth, Automeris io; buck moth Hemileuca spp.; and hag moth, Phobetron pithecium — Bug of the Week
- Stinging caterpillars - White flannel moth, Norape ovina, and Saddleback caterpillar, Archaria stimulea — Bug of the Week
- Archive — Bug of the Week