2020 Monarch Butterflies

~ shelli

A few weeks ago, we released the last of our monarch butterflies, and I’ve been meaning to share my photos ever since. We had only four caterpillars this year. (Last time we had 19!) We think a few of the caterpillars may have been preyed upon by wasps (because we counted more eggs), so we didn’t hesitate to move these four into our mesh cage when we found them. Here’s our monarch summer in photos. Enjoy!

The tiny white spot is an egg.
Recently hatched caterpillar.
Getting bigger.
In the mesh cage for safe keeping. Brought them fresh milkweed leaves everyday.
When they are getting ready to pupate, they attach themselves to the top of the cage and form a J shape with their body.
Beautiful chrysalises.
Right before they eclose, the chrysalis turns black. You can see the butterfly within.

The one on the right just emerged. It takes awhile for their wings to straighten out and dry.
Ready to release.

Good-bye!

 

Part of the reason I keep a blog is because being a stay-at-home mom can be lonely! So please reach out with a message, if you have a question or would like to chat. I usually write back within 24 hours, but please be patient.

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