Was up near Mansfield Center the other day and found some of the cutest little caterpillars I've ever seen! Took a few photos of them, tried to get one to walk onto my hand so I could get a better shot of it. All bright white except for a little black nose and two black hairs on the tail end looking like antenna. Just the cutest, you want to reach over and pet it.
but wait! Turns out to be a toxic white hickory tussock moth caterpillar! cute, but don't touch.

There were a lot of those when I was hiking the NET up in Massachusetts last week. They look like they need to be petted. Had to look them up. Here's a picture: https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-nIO6y1Yxg/Wb6iVpRPjjI/AAAAAAABtkU/UtuCvZ81PdsiFAhl0hc4Rk4d0GRMWGnEQCLcBGAs/s1600/1-P1230791-001.JPG

Aren't those the ones who give you the rash if you touch them?

BB

yes

don't pet them. no matter how cute.

Omg. I was on the edge of my seat reading this post..

Omg
Omg
Omg
Omg
It will eat your face!!!

There is just no end to what you learn by being a letterboxer. One of the first things I learned was how to identify trees by their leaves, needles, and bark. Then came shrubbery to avoid - stinging nettles, poison oak and ivy, etc. And now, creatures that can sting, bite, or otherwise ruin an otherwise pleasant hike!! I just LOVE this hobby!!