Go Native Blog

If you have ever noticed a lack of caterpillars in your garden during the winter months, you are not alone. Many people wonder why caterpillars seem to disappear during the colder months, and there are a few key reasons for this.

• Limited food sources: One of the main reasons that caterpillars don’t live through the winter is that they rely on specific plants for food. Most caterpillars are specialized feeders, meaning they can only eat a few specific types of plants. When these plants die back or go dormant in the winter, the caterpillars can no longer find food and are forced to migrate or enter a state of dormancy.
• Cold temperatures: Another reason that caterpillars don’t survive the winter is that they are not well-equipped to withstand cold temperatures. Most caterpillars are cold-blooded and rely on the warmth of the sun to regulate their body temperature. When temperatures drop too low, caterpillars are unable to maintain their body heat and are at risk of freezing to death.
• Lack of shelter: Caterpillars also struggle to survive the winter due to a lack of shelter. Many caterpillars make their homes on plants or in leaf litter, both of which may not be available during the winter. This can make it difficult for caterpillars to find a place to hide from the cold and wind.
• Natural life cycle: Finally, it is worth noting that the lack of caterpillars in the winter is a natural part of their life cycle. Most caterpillars go through a process called diapause, which is similar to hibernation, during the winter months. This allows them to conserve energy and survive the cold until more favorable conditions return in the spring.

Overall, there are several reasons why caterpillars don’t live through the winter, including limited food sources, cold temperatures, a lack of shelter, and their natural life cycle. While it may be disappointing to see fewer caterpillars in the winter, it is an important and necessary part of their life cycle and helps to ensure the survival of their species.