Arctiidae is a family of the Lepidoptera, representing the tiger moths.
Many species have hairy caterpillars which are popularly known as woolly bears. The scientific name refers to this (Gk. αρκτος = a bear).
Colonial superstition has it that the forthcoming weather can be predicted by the amount of black on a woolly bear caterpillar.
Some produce foul chemicals. They can be poisonous, or can look just like kinds of moths that are poisonous.
The caterpillars are usually active during the daytime. If disturbed, they will roll into a tight spiral.
They're found all over the world.
Some species:
de:Bärenspinner
lt:Meškutės
nl:Arctiidae
