How to Care for Caterpillars

Raising caterpillars educates children about metamorphosis. Metamorphosis occurs when a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly or moth. Caring for a caterpillar requires dedication because they need clean environments and plenty of fresh food. Caterpillars are mostly herbivores, but some varieties eat other insects. Caring for a caterpillar properly allows it to pupate or form a cocoon. When the cocoon opens, the butterfly or moth emerges and needs to fly away so that the life cycle can continue.

Things You'll Need

  • 1-gallon container or larger
  • Fresh soil
  • Fresh leaves
  • Small jar
  • Cotton balls
  • Mesh screen or cheesecloth
  • Large rubber band
  • Mild dish soap
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Handle the caterpillar carefully to avoid harming it. Place a leaf in front of the caterpillar and nudge it underneath to make the caterpillar walk onto it. Carry the caterpillar to a clean container.

    • 2

      Select a container large enough to hold the caterpillar and the leaves that it will be eating. Line the bottom of the container with an inch of moist soil. Add one or two sticks to the container to allow the caterpillars to hang. Secure the sticks in place in the soil.

    • 3

      Place fresh leaves in the container for the caterpillar. Insert the stems into a small jar of water inside the container. Fill the spaces of the jar with wadded cotton balls to prevent the caterpillar from falling inside the jar.

    • 4

      Cover the top of the container with a mesh screen or cheesecloth. Secure the top in place with a large rubber band so that the caterpillar does not escape.

    • 5

      Clean the caterpillar cage when it appears dirty. Remove the caterpillar and place it in a covered container. Place the plant food with the caterpillar so that it can eat. Empty the container and clean it out carefully with a mild dish soap and warm water. Rinse the container and dry it thoroughly before filling it with new soil and fresh food.

    • 6

      Remove the food when the caterpillar forms a cocoon. Spray the soil with a light mist of water to keep it moist and wipe away any moisture that forms in the container.

    • 7

      Check on the container often to determine if the cocoon has hatched. Place the container outdoors with the lid off to allow the butterfly or moth to fly away so that it does not damage its wings inside the container.