Can the woolly bear caterpillar be a predictor of weather? Some scientists think so while others say it’s just folklore. The thinking is as follows. If there are more dark brown or black segments then we’re in for a harsher-than-usual winter. Most commonly seen in late fall, the caterpillars have found their winter homes now in tree cavities and under rocks. In the spring, woolly bears spin fuzzy cocoons and eventually emerge as full-grown moths. By the way, woolly bears don’t feel much like soft wool. Instead they are covered with short, stiff bristles. Regardless, you have to admit they are darn cute.
~ David Dunleavy
Photo By Andrew Kepics
