Look at these Woolly Bear Caterpillars that I've spotted in different places this past week. Do you think they can predict the kind of winter weather we will have this year?
As a child, we were told that the brown and black bands could tell what would happen in the upcoming winter months.
I know there is allegedly no scientific proof that the stripes are accurate to any degree. Yet it is fun to play that childhood game and believe in the Woolly Bear to steer us right.
Here is what Folklore Legend says about them:
• Body Segments: The caterpillar's 13 body segments represent the 13 weeks of winter.
• Rust-Brown Band: A wide rust-brown middle band predicts a milder winter.
• Black Bands: More black segments or narrow brown bands predict a harsher, colder, or snowier winter.
• Head & Tail Ends: A dark head end means a severe beginning to winter; a dark tail end means a severe end to winter.
Source
If I were to stand by the myth, I would have to say that three out of the four caterpillars have different opinions. It reminds me of the weathermen on different stations predicting different outcomes.
Well, with El Niño raising havoc with our weather patterns this year. I can see why the Woolly Bears are unsure of what is coming our way, lol.
What do you think this winter will be like in your area? Have you found the caterpillars crawling about yet? So far, I'm seeing them here and there. They are certainly cute little creatures.
Have a great weekend, everyone!