Yellow woolly bear (banded woolly bear caterpillar)

Found in meadows, woodland edges, gardens, and leaf litter across much of North America.

Caterpillars feed on many herbaceous plants, including grasses, asters, clover, and garden plants; adults do not feed extensively.

The densely hairy larva often wanders openly while searching for food or a pupation site, especially in autumn. It overwinters as a larva or pupa and later emerges as a white moth with dark spots.

Its hairs are generally non-venomous but may cause mild skin or eye irritation in sensitive people. It is harmless to people, supports insect-eating wildlife, and contributes to plant decomposition and food webs.