Woolly worms, also known as the Isabella tiger moth caterpillar, are a familiar sight across North America, often noted for their role in traditional weather lore. These fuzzy creatures are frequently observed moving across various landscapes. Understanding their dietary habits is key to appreciating their ecological role and provides insight for anyone interested in observing them. This article explores their natural food sources and how to provide a suitable diet if you encounter one.
Natural Food Sources
Woolly worms are herbivores, consuming a diverse array of plant matter in their natural habitats. They are generalist feeders, meaning their diet is not restricted to a single plant type, allowing them to thrive in various environments. Their food choices often depend on regional availability and their developmental stage.
These caterpillars primarily feed on low-growing herbaceous plants and common weeds. Preferred wild food sources include dandelion, dock, aster, goldenrod, plantain, clover, nettles, and burdock. They also consume the leaves of certain trees and shrubs, such as maple, elm, and birch.
Woolly worms also eat wild grasses and the leaves of cultivated grains like corn and barley. They consume only the leaves, not stems or flowers, requiring plants to be in their leafy green stage. Their adaptable diet allows them to inhabit diverse areas, from meadows and open fields to urban gardens, where they might feed on plants like spinach and cabbage.
Caring for a Woolly Worm’s Diet
For those observing a woolly worm, providing a suitable diet is straightforward due to their broad feeding preferences. The most effective approach is to offer fresh leaves from the types of plants where the caterpillar was initially found. This ensures the food source is familiar and palatable to the individual caterpillar.
Woolly worms require a consistent daily supply of fresh, soft, tender leaves. Replace any leaves that become dry or crunchy. Suitable options include dandelion, clover, plantain, and various garden greens like spinach or cabbage. Always ensure that any plant material offered has not been treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
Woolly worms obtain most of their moisture from the plants they consume. Misting the inside of their container or the leaves can provide additional hydration; a separate water dish is not necessary. During colder months, woolly worms hibernate. While they do not require constant feeding during this dormancy, they may occasionally wake and need access to fresh food.