How This Strange Processionary Caterpillar Is Used As A Weather Indicator

  • 8 years ago
Some environments hold more challenges than others, and those living in them often look to nature for clues about what’s to come.

Some environments hold more challenges than others, and those living in them often look to nature for clues about what’s to come. 

The Arrernte of central Australia are among such people, and their trusted foreteller of seasonal severity is the processionary caterpillar. 

By studying the length of the train the moths-to-be form when traveling, they can gain insights into the extent of temperature dips headed their way. 

As far as weather extremes go, the desert the Arrernte call home can be especially brutal. 

Summer highs can exceed the 100 degree Fahrenheit mark, and winters often bring enough of a chill to produce frost. 

Knowing how the upcoming weather may impact food supplies is crucial for the people’s survival, and the processionary caterpillar helps them stay on top of the situation. 

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