DunnoZo
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I was thinking about the caterpillar thing earlier....most of the hairy caterpillar's I've seen are in a web type nest at the base of trees although of course single ones can be found on a branch or leaf. I know GBC's house was on a rural type property with trees around it but I'm wondering if he was stung by them out at Kholo Creek??....maybe the hairs of caterpillars were found on his clothes & they were sent to that Forensic's doctor in Perth??...just a thought anyway.
Some info about caterpillar stings...
These hairs are fragile and easily dislodged from the caterpillar, they adhere to the surface of skin when the caterpiller is contacted, or they become airborne and on settling the barbed or dart hairs easily fragment and penetrate clothing or skin.
Clinical Presentation
The intensity of the irritation, whether it be caused by "venomous" or "irritating" hairs, will be dependent on the species of caterpillar and the sensitivity of the patient. Patients that come in contact with urticating hairs usually develop wheals and widespread rashes which can be accompanied by a burning sensation. Other symptoms include dermatitis, papules, pain, itching and swelling of the infected area. This inflammation can persist for days, although in most cases the symptoms are transitory. If mucous membranes have been affected there may be some swelling and irritation. Detached hairs can also be inhaled and the upper respiratory tract can be affected producing dyspnoea or laboured breathing. Injuries to the eye have been recorded, resulting in conditions such as nodular conjunctivitis and, less commonly, permanent damage to the cornea. In the case of a mistletoe browntail caterpillar infestation, large numbers of school age children have been known to become affected after sitting under infested Eucalyptus trees, or as a result of disturbing leaf litter and bark at the base of the trees where the caterpillars have rested or pupated
http://medent.usyd.edu.au/fact/caterpillars.htm
Just questioned a 9 yr.old who goes to Brookfield State School about hairy caterpillars. " We never touch them, we just squish them"