The diet of the Pyrrharctia isabella larva, commonly known as the woolly bear, consists primarily of various grasses, weeds, and leaves. This insect is not a picky eater and consumes a wide range of plant matter found within its habitat. Examples include dandelion greens, clover, nettles, and plantain.
The larval stage is crucial for the caterpillar as it builds up reserves for metamorphosis. Consumption of suitable vegetation ensures the caterpillar obtains the necessary nutrients for development into its adult form, the Isabella tiger moth. Historically, some have used the bands on these caterpillars to predict the severity of winter, though scientific evidence does not support this claim.
