7
Credit: Inside the MagicThe Walt Disney World Resort will be targeted as a new foe invades Central Florida.
Disney World is known for attracting fans from all over the world. The flagship resort in Central Florida is the jewel in the Disney park crown and millions step through its gates each year. From the Magic Kingdom to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom, guests can find experiences and attractions unlike no other.
That said, because of the heavy crowds, Disney is also known for attracting other, more unfavorable things. In recent months, reports of the flu and measles virus hitting Central Florida counties have surfaced, and now another invasion is currently underway.
Related: “Severe” Change To Disperse Heavy Spring Break Crowds at Disney World
Per Click Orlando, Central Florida is seeing the return of the tussock moth caterpillars. Varying in color, the fuzzy insects are cropping up all over the Sunshine State and, thanks to a high tolerance for warmer temperatures, will likely grow in number.
The tussock moth caterpillars are often found in oak trees and lay eggs in February and March. As spring continues, more of these insects will appear in Florida, with places of interest being “on cars, sidewalks, porches, playgrounds and other outdoor structures,” according to Click Orlando’s report.
And what does Walt Disney World Resort have lots of? All of the above.
Disney is good at keeping out unwanted visitors. The mosquito, for example, is rarely seen at the resort due to the implementation of constantly running water. Unmoving water is a breeding ground for mosquitos, so by keeping water moving at the Disney World theme parks, the chance of encountering the insect pest is greatly reduced, and a guest’s Disney experience is unlikely to be ruined. The same might not be true for the tussock moth caterpillar, though.
The insect can cause allergic reactions, including itchiness, so contact with the caterpillars is not recommended. The Department of Health has listed steps to aid anyone who touches these creatures. Florida residents are advised to remove the insect from the skin without using bare hands, followed by using tape to cover the affected area to pull out any hairs or spines left behind. Then, the skin is washed gently, an ice pack is applied, and baking soda and water are used to reduce itchiness. If problems persist, the recommendation is to contact a healthcare provider (steps shared by Click Orlando’s report).
Related: Warning Signs Erected Near Disney: Rare Deadly Virus Discovered
Disney World guests are used to seeing wildlife around the parks. From snakes to lizards to alligators and even armadillos, the Sunshine State is filled with animals. And that’s not including the wide variety over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where creatures from across the globe can be discovered.
Have you come across this insect invasion yet? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!