Sanford Closes Paw Park After Invasive Caterpillars Discovered in Trees

Judy Sarullo was at Paw Park for an event last weekend when she spotted them: clusters of fuzzy caterpillars swarming through the trees above the off-leash run at 427 S. French Avenue in downtown Sanford. By Wednesday, the city had shut the park down.

Sanford Parks and Recreation crews closed the facility for the remainder of the week after city staff received multiple complaints about the insects, then applied an all-natural treatment designed to suppress caterpillar activity without heavy pesticide use. Entomologists and county parks staff began monitoring the area as officials worked to determine a reopening timeline.

Sarullo, a local animal-rescue operator, welcomed the city's response. She was among the first residents to raise the alarm, having flagged the infestation during that prior weekend event at the park.

The species involved are most likely tussock moth caterpillars, part of a broad spring emergence reported across North and Central Florida. Though not deadly, the caterpillars carry barbed hairs that can embed in skin and trigger painful stings, burning sensations, and itchy rashes. Dogs face the same exposure risk, and sensitive animals can suffer significant irritation after contact with the larvae.

Entomologists covering the statewide emergence have urged anyone who encounters the caterpillars to avoid touching them bare-handed. If removal is necessary, a card, tool, or broom is far safer than bare fingers. Anyone who does make skin contact should wash the area immediately with soap and water; tape can help pull out embedded hairs, and persistent reactions may require topical treatment or a visit to urgent care.

Pet owners should stay especially alert through the spring season. Veterinarians have advised calling a clinic ahead of a visit if a dog shows swelling, drooling, vomiting, or extreme pain after a possible caterpillar exposure.

Sanford officials asked residents to report any additional sightings to city parks staff so crews can prioritize treatment areas and move toward reopening Paw Park as quickly as conditions allow.