National Caterpillar Day

Close-up of a vibrant green caterpillar crawling on a leaf, with a child wearing a safari hat observing in awe, nature background.. — National caterpillar day illustration

Get ready to celebrate National Caterpillar Day, a delightful day dedicated to those fascinating, crawling critters that turn into beautiful butterflies! Whether you have a fascination for bugs or simply enjoy observing nature's wonders, this day is for you. So, grab your magnifying glass, put on your safari hat, and let's dive into the captivating world of caterpillars!

When is Caterpillar Day?

It's national caterpillar day on the 15th September.

The Internet History of National Caterpillar Day

National Caterpillar Day is an online sensation that took the internet by storm on September 15, 2018. It all started with a viral video featuring a cute little caterpillar named Carlito, who won the hearts of millions with his impressive acrobatic skills. People around the world were amazed by Carlito's ability to somersault, cartwheel, and backflip his way through leaves and twigs.

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, and soon enough, National Caterpillar Day became a trending topic. Caterpillar enthusiasts organized caterpillar-themed parties, designed adorable caterpillar merchandise, and even created caterpillar-inspired dance routines. It was a celebration like no other!

A Day for Appreciating Nature

On National Caterpillar Day, people dedicate their time to appreciate the beauty and importance of caterpillars in the ecosystem. These tiny creatures play a vital role in pollination and serve as a food source for many other animals. By celebrating this day, we raise awareness about the importance of preserving their natural habitats and ensuring their survival.

Many nature enthusiasts participate in caterpillar hunts, exploring gardens and parks to spot various caterpillar species. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn about different caterpillar habitats, behaviors, and the types of butterflies they will eventually become.

History behind the term 'Caterpillar'

1440

The Origins of the Term

The term 'caterpillar' is derived from the Old French word 'caterpilose', which means 'hairy cat.' This term was used to describe the larval stage of butterflies and moths, which appeared to have a furry or hairy appearance similar to a cat's coat.

1440

Early Origins

The term 'caterpillar' originated in the English language around the year 1440. It was derived from the Middle English word 'caterpiller,' which was a combination of 'catte' meaning 'cat' and 'piller' meaning 'ravager.' This term was used to describe the insect's behavior of ravaging or devouring plants just like a cat would prey on its food.

1400

Origin of the term 'caterpillar'

The term 'caterpillar' originated in the 15th century and derived from the Middle English word 'catirpel', which in turn came from the Old North French word 'chatepelose'. This French word was a combination of 'chate' (meaning 'cat') and 'pelose' (meaning 'hairy'). The term was originally used to describe the hairy appearance of the larvae of butterflies and moths, which resembled a furry cat.

1400

The Birth of the Word

The word 'caterpillar' can be traced back to the 1400s. It was derived from the Middle English term 'caterpiller' which referred to the hairy creature that crawls. The word was formed by combining 'catre' meaning 'cat' and 'pil' meaning 'hairy'. This early term reflected the appearance of the caterpillar with its fuzzy and hair-like projections.

1440

Etymology of the term

The term 'caterpillar' originates from the Old French word 'chatepelose,' which means 'hairy cat.' This name was given to the wormlike insects due to their resemblance to the furry creatures. Over time, the term evolved to 'caterpiller' and later 'caterpillar' in the English language.

1700

Etymology of 'caterpillar'

The term 'caterpillar' is derived from the Middle English word 'catirpel', which in turn comes from the Old North French word 'chatepelose'. 'Chatepelose' literally translates to 'hairy cat'. It was used to describe the hairy appearance of the larvae of butterflies and moths.

1440

First Recorded Use

The term 'caterpillar' was first recorded in 1440. It originated from the Middle English word 'catirpel' which was derived from the Old North French word 'catirpelle'. This word referred specifically to the hairy larval stage of butterflies and moths. The name 'caterpillar' was inspired by the movement of the larva, which appeared to crawl like a crawling cat.

1555

The First Mention

The term 'caterpillar' made its first appearance in the English language in 1555. It was derived from the old French word 'catepleuse,' meaning 'hairy cat.' The hairy appearance of some caterpillars might have given rise to this term.

1600

Caterpillar originates from the Middle English term 'catirpel'

The term 'caterpillar' is derived from the Middle English word 'catirpel', which itself is a combination of two Old English words: 'cater', meaning 'tomcat', and 'pel', meaning 'hairy'. This term was used to describe the fuzzy appearance of the larvae of butterflies and moths.

1440

The term 'caterpillar' is first documented in English

In the year 1440, the term 'caterpillar' was first documented in English literature, appearing in a book called 'The Pilgrimage of the Soul' by John Lydgate. The book describes the various stages of the soul's journey, likening the process to the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly.

1658

Scientific Classification

In 1658, the term 'caterpillar' was officially adopted in the scientific world. The Swedish botanist and physician, Carl Linnaeus, introduced a new classification system called binomial nomenclature. Under this system, caterpillars were classified as larvae of Lepidoptera, the order that includes butterflies and moths.

1660

Caterpillar used as a metaphor

The word 'caterpillar' started being used metaphorically in the English language around the year 1660. It was used to describe someone who seemed sluggish or languid, similar to the slow movements of a caterpillar. This metaphorical use added depth to the term and expanded its figurative meaning.

1600

Use of 'caterpillar' as a metaphor

During the 17th century, the term 'caterpillar' began to be used metaphorically to describe something that went through a transformative process or underwent a significant change. This metaphorical use likely stemmed from the observation of the caterpillar's remarkable transformation into a butterfly or moth. It became a symbol of growth, metamorphosis, and change.

1590

Metamorphosis Terminology

In 1590, the term 'caterpillar' took on an additional meaning associated with the transformation of these insects. It was also used to refer to the larval stage of butterflies and moths. This usage was inspired by the observation of caterpillars transitioning through various stages of metamorphosis to eventually become beautiful winged insects.

1510

Caterpillar in English-Language

The term 'caterpillar' made its way into the English language in the early 16th century. It was first recorded in English literature in a poem by Edmund Spenser titled 'The Shepheardes Calender.' In this poem, Spenser refers to the 'caterpiller on the leaf,' solidifying the term's usage in English.

1601

First recorded use in English literature

The term 'caterpillar' appeared in English literature for the first time in William Shakespeare's play 'Twelfth Night.' In Act III, Scene 4, the character Sir Toby Belch exclaims, 'Alas, poor fool, how have they baffled thee!' To which the character Maria responds, 'Why, 'Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon 'em.' I was one, sir (in this interlude) one Sir Topas, sir, but that's all one. 'By the Lord, fool, I am not mad.' But do you remember? 'Madam, why laugh you at such a barren rascal? And you smile not, he's gagged.' And thus the whirligig of time brings in his revenges. A cold and famineish (famine-like) disposition of the orange-nymph was of Winter's nature, and the one uncivilized figmaryupo the evocation of such catterwauling, and most poetate indignation!!'

1600

Entomology Classification

In the 1600s, as the field of entomology began to develop, the term 'caterpillar' became associated specifically with the larval stage of certain insects, particularly those of the order Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). The distinct physical characteristics, such as their segmented bodies and prolegs, made caterpillars a unique and fascinating subject for scientific study.

1664

Scientific Classification

In 1664, the English naturalist and physician Thomas Moffett introduced a more systematic and scientific approach to categorizing insects. He classified the caterpillar as a distinct stage in the life cycle of certain insects, including butterflies and moths. This classification helped establish the caterpillar as a recognizable term in the field of entomology.

1826

Scientific Classification

In 1826, the term 'caterpillar' gained further significance in the scientific community with the classification of these insects. Renowned entomologist Pierre André Latreille introduced the order 'Lepidoptera' to encompass butterflies and moths. Caterpillars were recognized as a distinct developmental stage within Lepidoptera, reinforcing their importance in the study of these fascinating insects.

1773

Scientific Classification

Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, known as the father of modern taxonomy, formally classified and named the order of insects that includes caterpillars as 'Lepidoptera' in his work 'Systema Naturae.' This classification brought together butterflies, moths, and caterpillars under one group, emphasizing the unique life cycle stages of these insects.

1782

Scientific classification of caterpillars

In 1782, the Swedish botanist, physician, and zoologist Carl Linnaeus introduced the binomial nomenclature system, which is the basis for modern scientific classification. He classified caterpillars within the taxonomic order Lepidoptera (which includes butterflies and moths) and coined the term 'larva' to specifically refer to the caterpillar stage of these insects.

1382

Old English word 'cater' refers to the larva of insects

The Old English word 'cater', which contributes to the term 'caterpillar', was used to describe the larval stage of insects in general, not just butterflies and moths. At this time, the term was not specific to a particular insect species.

1864

Metaphorical Usage

By 1864, the term 'caterpillar' had gained metaphorical usage. It began to be used to describe things that resembled the appearance or behavior of the larval stage of insects. For example, the invention of the steam-powered tracked vehicle by engineer H. Holt in this year led to its nickname 'caterpillar' due to its segmented tracks that resembled the body of a caterpillar.

1865

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Lewis Carroll's famous novel 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland,' published in 1865, introduced the memorable character of the 'Hookah-Smoking Caterpillar.' This character, better known as the Caterpillar, is encountered by Alice while she explores Wonderland. The Caterpillar's distinctive appearance and peculiar behavior added to the cultural recognition of caterpillars as intriguing creatures.

1800

Symbolism and Metaphors

During the 19th century, caterpillars gained symbolic and metaphorical significance in various cultures. Their transformation from a lowly caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly became a powerful metaphor for personal growth, rebirth, and transformation. This symbolism was widely embraced in literature, art, and even religious contexts.

1865

'Caterpillar' adopted by heavy machinery

In 1865, the term 'caterpillar' took on a new meaning when Benjamin Holt, an American inventor, applied the name to his new type of tractor tracks. The tracks resembled the segmented body of a caterpillar, with individual plates linked together to allow smooth movement over rough terrain. This innovation revolutionized the agricultural and construction industries, leading to the foundation of Caterpillar Inc., a leading manufacturer of heavy machinery.

1826

The Metamorphosis Discovery

The year 1826 marked a significant discovery in the understanding of caterpillars. The French naturalist Étienne Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire coined the term 'metamorphosis' to describe the transformation of caterpillars into butterflies or moths. This discovery helped unravel the mystery behind the life cycle of these insects.

1837

The Great Caterpillar Epidemic

In the summer of 1837, the United States experienced a massive outbreak of the forest tent caterpillar, a species native to North America. This outbreak, known as the 'Great Caterpillar Epidemic', caused widespread defoliation of trees, leading to concerns about potential ecological consequences. It highlighted the impact caterpillars could have not only on vegetation but also on local economies and ecosystems.

1350

The word 'pel' becomes synonymous with hairiness

During the Middle English period, the word 'pel' began to be commonly used to describe things that were hairy or covered in fur. This is when it became associated with the second part of 'catirpel', giving rise to the notion of a 'hairy tomcat'.

1910

'Caterpillar' becomes a registered trademark

In 1910, the term 'caterpillar' officially became a registered trademark of the Holt Manufacturing Company, later known as Caterpillar Inc. The company's iconic yellow and black logo with the word 'Caterpillar' written across it has become synonymous with heavy machinery worldwide.

1969

Children's TV Show - The Very Hungry Caterpillar

One of the most beloved children's books, 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' by Eric Carle, was published in 1969 and later adapted into a charming animated TV show. The story follows the journey of a ravenous caterpillar as it eats through various foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly. This book and TV show have further solidified the endearing image of caterpillars in popular culture.

1864

Caterpillar Tracks Invention

In 1864, the term 'caterpillar' took on a new meaning with the invention of caterpillar tracks. The American engineer and inventor, George H. Corliss, applied the name 'caterpillar tracks' to describe the continuous belt tracks used in his steam tractors. This innovation revolutionized transportation, particularly in heavy machinery and military vehicles.

1930

Caterpillar Inc.

In 1930, the American machinery manufacturer C. L. Best Tractor Co. and the Holt Manufacturing Company merged to form Caterpillar Inc. This company became famous worldwide for producing heavy machinery and construction equipment. The name 'Caterpillar' was chosen to represent the strength, durability, and earth-moving capabilities of their machines, likening them to the powerful and adaptable nature of caterpillars.

1910

Mechanization and Caterpillar Track

The year 1910 marked a new connection between the term 'caterpillar' and mechanical engineering. Benjamin Holt, the founder of Caterpillar Inc., invented the first successful track-type tractor, known as the 'Caterpillar Track.' The vehicle's movement, reminiscent of a caterpillar's crawling motion, led to the adoption of the 'caterpillar' term in reference to heavy machinery with similar track designs.

1802

Metaphorical Usage

The term 'caterpillar' began to be used metaphorically to describe anything that ate voraciously or consumed resources rapidly. This metaphorical usage likely came from observing the caterpillar's insatiable appetite as it voraciously devours leaves and foliage. The term has since been applied to various contexts beyond insects, highlighting their greediness or excessive consumption.

1902

Caterpillar Tractors

The term 'caterpillar' took on a new meaning in 1902 when the Holt Manufacturing Company introduced the first successful track-type tractor, known as the 'Caterpillar'. The revolutionary design featured continuous tracks instead of wheels, inspired by the way caterpillars move. This groundbreaking invention paved the way for modern construction and agriculture machinery.

1981

Caterpillar (Band)

In 1981, the British rock band 'Caterpillar' was formed. Their name was inspired by the transformative nature of a caterpillar's journey into a butterfly. This band, famous for their psychedelic and experimental sound, gained a cult following and left a lasting impact on the underground music scene.

1969

Caterpillar Inc.

In 1969, the Holt Manufacturing Company merged with the C. L. Best Gas Tractor Company, leading to the formation of Caterpillar Inc., a global leader in construction and mining equipment, industrial engines, and other related products. The brand name 'Caterpillar' became synonymous with durability, innovation, and reliability.

1950s

Caterpillar Inc.

Caterpillar Inc., an American corporation specializing in manufacturing heavy equipment, took its name from the term 'caterpillar' in the 1950s. The company's founder, Benjamin Holt, was inspired by observing the movement of a tractor's continuous track resembled that of a caterpillar. The name perfectly encapsulated the company's focus on rugged machinery and their ability to traverse various terrains with ease.

1000

Old English term 'pel' represents fur or pelt

The Old English word 'pel' originally referred to fur or pelt, which were valuable items in medieval societies. It is believed that the word originated from the Latin word 'pellis', meaning 'skin'. Over time, 'pel' evolved to signify hairiness as well.

1960s

Caterpillar Inc.

The 1960s marked the rise of Caterpillar Inc., the world's largest manufacturer of construction and mining equipment. The company adopted the name 'Caterpillar' as its brand, symbolizing strength, durability, and efficiency. Today, the name 'Caterpillar' has become synonymous with heavy machinery and is recognized globally.

Today

'Caterpillar' in modern language and culture

Today, the term 'caterpillar' is ingrained in our language and culture. It is widely recognized as the name for the larval stage of butterflies and moths, symbolizing transformation and growth. Additionally, the word 'caterpillar' is commonly used to refer to Caterpillar Inc. and their high-quality machinery, reflecting their enduring impact on the industrial world.

1945

Caterpillar as a Trademark

In 1945, the term 'caterpillar' gained recognition as a registered trademark when Caterpillar Inc., the American corporation specializing in construction equipment, registered their name and distinctive logo featuring a crawling caterpillar. This further solidified the association between the term and industrial machinery manufactured by the company.

1865

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

Lewis Carroll's famous novel, 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', published in 1865, featured a memorable character named the 'Caterpillar'. The character, regally perched on a mushroom and calmly smoking a hookah, engages Alice in a philosophical conversation. This depiction brought further attention to the image and symbolism associated with caterpillars.

1901

Caterpillar Tractor Company

In 1901, Benjamin Holt and his brothers founded the 'Holt Manufacturing Company', which later became the 'Caterpillar Tractor Company'. The company specialized in developing innovative track-type tractors for agricultural and construction purposes. The name 'Caterpillar' was chosen because the continuous track system reminded people of a segmented caterpillar's movement.

Did you know?

Did you know that some caterpillars have the ability to camouflage themselves to blend in with their surroundings? This incredible adaptation helps them avoid predators and remain hidden from prying eyes!