Centuries ago, farmers and others observed animal behavior and recognized patterns that corresponded to weather events. these observations were passed down through generations as advice. Are they true? do they work? See below; you decide...
Can Cows Forecast the Weather?
If a cow stands with its tail to the west, the weather is said to be fair.
If a cow grazes with its tail to the east, the weather is likely to turn sour.
If the bull leads the cows to pasture, expect rain; if the cows precede the bull, the weather will be uncertain.
There is some truth here. Animals graze with their tail toward the wind so that if a predator sneaks up behind them, the wind will help catch the scent of the predator and prevent an attack.
Other Animal Indicators
Expect rain when dogs eat grass, cats purr and wash, sheep turn into the wind, oxen sniff the air, and swine are restless.
When cats sneeze, it is a sign of rain.
When cattle lie down in the pasture, it indicates early rain.
When horses and cattle stretch out their necks and sniff the air, it will rain.
Woolly caterpillars are said to be winter weather predictors: the more brown they have on their bodies, the milder winter will be.
If a mole digs its hole 2 1/2 feet, expect severe weather; if two feet deep, not so severe; if one foot deep, a mild winter.
When pigs gather leaves and straw in fall, expect a cold winter.
When rabbits are fat in October and November, expect a long, cold winter.
If sheep ascent hills and scatter, expect clear weather.
Bats flying late in the evening indicates fair weather.
Wolves always howl more before a storm.