Millions of blinding caterpillars attack English village.

Caterpillars with sharp, stiff hairs that can cause breathing difficulties, rashes, and even blindness are appearing in abundance in bushes across England.

The poisonous brown-tailed caterpillar is commonly found in bushes across England. Photo: SWNS

A large number of brown-tailed caterpillar larvae with stiff, swollen bristles have appeared in bushes in Essex, eastern England, Express reported on September 20.

These caterpillars use tiny, venomous hairs for defense. Their hairs can cause breathing difficulties, rashes, headaches, and even blindness if they get into the eyes, seriously affecting human health.

Deepbrown tailThey usually gather in groups of about 400 to weave a large cocoon to protect themselves from the winter weather. The number of caterpillarsBrown tail attacks the villageHeybridge Basin, Maldon TownshipEstimated to be in the millions.

"A caterpillar fell from a tree onto my neck. After going inside, I used paper to remove and throw it away. A few hours later, I felt like I'd been bitten by the worst mosquito ever. The itching lasted for two nights, and the burning sensation lingered for weeks afterward," recounted Jill Doubtfire, 70.

Local authorities across England also distributed similar leaflets to highlight the dangers posed by brown-tailed caterpillars, particularly for those with asthma and allergic rhinitis.

"The caterpillar's hairs are sharp and stiff, and can pierce the skin and cause irritation. People with asthma or allergic rhinitis should avoid inhaling them as they can cause breathing difficulties," the leaflet warned.

They also advised those wishing to clean the webs of brown-tailed caterpillars to wear protective clothing to avoid contact with their hairs.

"You need to be very careful, do not touch brown-tailed caterpillars, and it's best to close windows to prevent them from entering the house. If you do touch a caterpillar, you can take a warm bath and apply an anti-allergy cream to soothe the itching. In case of other symptoms or persistent swelling, you need to contact health authorities immediately," British authorities advised.

According to VNE