Woolly Bear Caterpillar Moth

Isia isabella

Familiar since colonial times as the "Woolly Bear," this caterpillar is often seen crossing roads and paths on warm days in late fall. According to superstition, the amount of black in the caterpillar's bristly coating forecasts the severity of the coming winter. Actually, the coloration indicates how near the caterpillar is to full growth before autumn weather forces it to seek a winter shelter.

Look For : Yellow-brown fore wings with black dots. Caterpillar: bristly, black and reddish.

Length : 1 5/8-2".

Habitat : Meadows.

Range : Widespread.