Podalia orsilocha - Mariposa-da-Lagarta-Cachorrinho (Cramer, 1775)

Lepidoptera: Apoditrysia: Zygaenoidea (Bombycoidea?): Megalopygidae

Wingspan: ~65mm
Date: 13th of October, 2017 at 10:31:42pm.
Location: Brazil, Santa Catarina, Benedito Novo

Found commonly in Brazil and a few other places, this moth's larval phase can unleash a nasty surprise if touched. The caterpillar is very furry and attractive to the touch, but this fur conceals hazardous bristles that can cause intense pain under contact. The toxin is secreted through a gland lying beneath the bristles that will release it if pressured. The toxin can cause fever and pain, but taking away the allergic factor, it should pose no threat. The Podalia orsilocha is a pale yellow when adults with black markings scattered on the wings and the moths, as far as my knowledge goes, are rarely seen, with the larvae possessing a greater number of sightings than the adults. They are members of the order Lepidoptera, superfamily Zygaenoidea (some entities place them under Bombycoidea, I'm not sure which is correct), and family Megalopygidae. The adult's feeding habits or lack of are unknown to me. The caterpillar is poliphytophagous.

The caterpillars are naturally found in fields and areas with naturally adapted vegetation, but are often found in anthropic environments, where this was found. The moth are often seen in towns, being attracted to light sources.

Sources:

https://www.insetologia.com.br/2014/06/mariposa-podalia-no-rio-de-janeiro.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podalia_orsilochus

http://www.biodiversidadeteresopolis.com.br/2013/06/12/lagarta-de-mariposa-da-familia-megalopygidae/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Podalia

https://www.flickr.com/photos/90040531@N04/31839703444