How to Feed Caterpillars

Caterpillars are often raised as pets until they transform into butterflies. Knowing how to feed your caterpillars will ensure they get the proper nutrition. Caterpillars are picky eaters, with each species having its own specific type of food. If you found your caterpillar on a certain type of plant, usually that's the plant it will eat. With this basic guide, you will be able to successfully feed your caterpillar the correct way.

Things You'll Need

  • Plants
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the type of plant that your caterpillar likes by checking a field guide. Field guides are wildlife books found in libraries. Some caterpillars eat various types of plants, while others may only eat one particular type. Some of the most common types of caterpillars include the saddleback caterpillar, monarch caterpillar, chicken pox caterpillar, green leaf caterpillar, sulphurs, painted Ladies, orange tip and the spotted caterpillar.

    • 2

      Place a potted plant inside your caterpillar's cage. If the the host plant that the caterpillar eats is too large, pick fresh green leaves from the tree. Inspect the leaves for signs of insects such as spiders, and wash them thoroughly before feeding the caterpillars.

    • 3

      Place leftover leaves in a glass of water and keep it inside the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for a longer time. Remove dry leaves from the cage daily, replacing them with fresh leaves. Commercial plant food can be bought from a herb garden to feed your caterpillar.

    • 4

      Place certain caterpillars such as the orange tip species by themselves, since they tend to have cannibalistic tendencies when placed in a cage with other species.