Isabella Tiger Moth (caterpillar) – 10/10/24

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/10/24

Observation Time: 1:00 p.m.

Observation Location: near Ward’s Berry Farm

Common Name: Isabella Tiger Moth caterpillar (a.k.a. banded wooly bear)

Scientific Name: Pyrrharctia isabella

Comments:  Isabella tiger moths overwinter as caterpillars before pupating in spring and subsequently emerging as adult moths. The caterpillars are somewhat tolerant to short-term freezing periods in which the entire caterpillar is frozen and then thaws out. However, longer-term freezing periods can be harmful.

It is said that the amount of the brown on the band determines the length of the forthcoming winter. This however, is just folklore and not scientifically based.

When I lived in Colorado, I learned how to tie artificial flies that looked like wooly bear caterpillars to catch trout.

More Information: Project Noah and Wikipedia