Habitat

Pyrrharctia isabella can be found in every state in the continental United States, ranging from the tip of Florida to the upper Midwest states. This species' unique hardiness to the cold allows it to adapt and thrive in particularly cool environments, and it has been found as far north as the southern boreal forest of Alberta (Encyclopedia of Life), in addition to other parts of Canada. Pyrrharctia isabella is most commonly seen dwelling in open parklands, meadows, pastures, woodland areas, and alongside roadways (Ohio Department of Natural Resources). In it's larval stage, the woolly bear caterpillar generally prefers to enter into hibernation on the surface of the soil covered in a blanket of plant debris. 

Although Pyrrharctia isabella consumes varying types of invasive plants in the environment, it does not contribute much to the control of these particular weed species. In addition, these organisms rarely act as a garden or crop pest. Common predators of the Pyrrharctia isabella include birds, shrews, toads, frogs, beetles, spiders, skunks, and snakes.

 

 

Learn about Pyrrharctia isabella's Adaptations.

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