CATERPILLARS with the potential to cause painful rashes and breathing difficulties have been spotted on a beach.

Arun District Council is warning people to stay away if they see a brown-tail moth caterpillar after sightings at West Beach in Littlehampton.

They are furry looking and brown, with two distinctive white stripes down their sides and two reddish dots on their backs.

A spokesman for the council said: “Brown-tail moth caterpillars have been spotted in the car park, beach and sand dunes at West Beach in Littlehampton.

“If you spot them, please do not touch them as they can cause painful rashes, blisters and asthma attacks.”

Brown-tail moth caterpillars are fairly common and widespread in Sussex, especially along the coast.

Charlotte Owen, of Sussex Wildlife Trust, said they are often found in large groups and are most obvious in May and June.

She said: “They feed on a wide range of plants and are black and hairy with two distinctive orange-red bumps at the tail end, which help to distinguish them from other similar species.

“The hairs can cause skin irritation so it’s important not to touch the caterpillars or get too close to them, especially if you suffer from allergies or skin sensitivities – in which case it may be best to avoid known hotspots since loose hairs can be blown about on the wind.

“The caterpillars usually pupate in June, with adult moths emerging about a month later.”

People are being warned not to go near the caterpillars without protective clothing covering exposed skin.

A spokesman for Brighton and Hove City Council said: “The caterpillars carry up to two million spiked and barbed hairs which can penetrate skin, causing an irritant reaction.

“For asthmatics and hay fever sufferers, it is important that the hairs are not inhaled as these may cause severe breathing difficulties.”

The rash caused by the furry caterpillars is often likened to that of a severe nettle sting.

Warm water and camomile lotion should be used to treat any rashes.

In previous years, Newhaven has been a hotspot for brown-tail moth caterpillars.