One quiet Saturday morning, I was cleaning my car when I reached under the back seat and felt something strange—dry, rigid, and covered in tiny prickly hairs. Curious, I pulled it out, placed it in a bag, and brought it inside. A quick online search left me stunned: it was the shed skin of a Lonomia caterpillar, one of the most venomous in the world.

While native to South America, these caterpillars can occasionally appear in other regions through accidental transport. Even shed skins can pose risks, as tiny spines may break off, irritate the skin, or even become airborne. Realizing the potential danger, I immediately contacted pest control.

They confirmed the identification, carefully removed the skin, and thoroughly inspected the car for any live caterpillars in vents, upholstery, or flooring. Thankfully, none were found. Standing in my driveway afterward, I felt both relieved and unsettled. My car had always felt like a safe space, yet hazards can arrive quietly and unexpectedly.

The idea that something so dangerous had been inches away was chilling. Since that day, I’ve become far more cautious. I keep gloves in the car, avoid touching unknown objects with bare hands, and take every unusual find seriously. That odd discovery under my seat was a stark reminder that danger can hide in plain sight. It changed the way I view everyday safety and the importance of vigilance, even in places that feel secure.