Woolly Bear Caterpillar

Found in temperate regions across North America, inhabiting fields, meadows, and gardens under logs or leaf litter.

Feeds on a wide variety of herbaceous plants, including dandelion, plantain, grass, and various garden foliage.

Curls into a tight, prickly ball when disturbed and overwinters in a frozen state under ground debris before pupating in spring.

Harmless to humans though defensive bristles can cause mild skin irritation; benefits the ecosystem as an important food source for birds and small mammals.