Posted by AMY GEHRT on February 21, 2006

Q: Yesterday, I was given a black wooly bear caterpillar. He wasn't moving at all, but his little feet were still sticky and the body felt pliable and alive. I kept him on my desk all day, then poked holes in a plastic container and took him home with me. I did some research this a-m and came across this site. I was reassured to learn that I was probably right and he was just hibernating, but thought I should probably put him outside where it is cooler so he can fulfill his cycle properly. But I want to make sure I chose a good spot for him. I put him next to my building at work, under a little roof overhang, and I put a bunch of leaves over him. Is that sufficient to protect him from the elements? I know when it rains or snows, some water will likely flow towards him. Will that be ok or should I leave him alone?

Habitat: suburban/yard

State: Illinois

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: I was glad to see you had done a bit of research to find out what to do with your Woolly Bear. So often people with the best of intentions make the wrong decisions because they don't know. Anyway, sounds as though your little guy is probably well off. I might suggest one thing though. I'd be sure that there was a fair amount of leaves over him. If he's at the base of your building, there will be some residual heat that will keep him from getting "too cold", and yet he'll be cold enough to remain dormant until spring. If you can pile up a bit of leaves (more than just a few) so there is some insulation, this will keep him from getting totally exposed to any frigid weather you may get yet this winter. In any event, sounds as though he should be OK. Thanks for asking and thanks for going that extra mile for your Woolly Bear.

John Wiessinger ( February 22, 2006)