How to Hatch a Caterpillar

Caterpillars come in many sizes and varieties, and are usually found nibbling on their favorite plant. They are picky eaters and will often only eat the leaves or flowers of their host plant. Caterpillars undergo a complete metamorphosis during their life cycle, literally transforming from one insect body into another. When a caterpillar emerges from its cocoon, it is no longer a caterpillar, but a butterfly. Taking care of the caterpillar pupae is important to ensure healthy, lively butterflies.

Things You'll Need

  • Water mister
  • Plants
  • Terrarium or cage
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide the caterpillar with plenty of host plants for feeding. Be sure to choose plants specifically enjoyed by the caterpillar species. Caterpillars also get all of their water from plants, so it is not necessary to provide any additional water sources.

    • 2

      Clean the bottom of the cage everyday to eliminate caterpillar excretions and to prevent mold growth. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap prior to touching anything inside the caterpillar cage to prevent bacterial infections in your caterpillars. Mist the cage occasionally to provide a humid environment, but not too frequently as to promote mold growth.

    • 3

      When the caterpillars have spun their cocoon and are now pupae, make sure the pupae are hanging at least six inches from the bottom of the cage and also have enough space horizontally to ensure the newly-emerged butterflies' wings will not touch the cage. Butterflies must properly dry their wings or they will die. If there is not enough room in the cage, they must be moved to a bigger cage. Mist the cage occasionally to make the environment humid.

    • 4

      When the pupae turn dark or clear, the butterfly is ready to emerge. Mist the cage to ensure is is properly humid. If the pupae turn very dark, and you gently bend the abdominal region of the pupa and it stays bent, the pupa has died.