help w/caterpillar questions

[Mike]

If you live in the more temparate areas, wooley bears (which turn into
the isabella moth(P. isabella)) will overwinter as a caterpillar.  Like
many of the Arctiids (the family to which they belong), they can be
found out roaming during the fall months.  During winter, they find
protected little spots under logs, rocks, leaves, etc.  On warm days,
they will come out and forage a little for food (which, in general is
plantains and dandelions - or many other plants).  In spring, when the
weather warms, they will come out of hibernation, eat for a few more
weeks.  Then, they will build thier cocoon in a sheltered spot and hatch
just a few weeks later.  In Maryland, I begin seeing the first brood in
May/June.

Hope this helps