Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have kept a small wooly bear for 2 1/2 months now and had expected it to go into a cacoon by now. I am now at the point where I will no longer be able to supply it the leaves it needs to eat. How can I determine if it is close to that stage or not?
What can I do to keep it alive when there are no more leaves (Ash) ?.
Thanks,
Ray

Hi Ray -

I don't blame you for your frustration! Woolly bears are one of few caterpillars that spend the winter in their larval stage.

where do you live? They need a cold period to then molt to its next stage in the spring. So if you want to keep it over the winter I would suggest putting it into an escape proof and rodent proof enclosure with some rocks, leaves, soil from outside and then place it in a cold area (garage? barn? outside out of direct sun). Then take it out in spring to let it warm up. Here is a link.

lele

here's a link for you
Link

Thanks lele!
I live in NJ.
Your info and links were of great interest.
I guess there's hope for our little friend afterall, i just need to get it some bark & rocks.

yes, it will just be a bit of a long wait. The most important things thru the winter is to expose it to natural day length and temps, the best you can, and keep away from rodents! ;-O