How to Keep a Caterpillar in a Jar

While a destructive nuisance in a garden, caterpillars make for an entertaining and low-maintenance pet. When properly cared for, it's possible to see the transformation from a wriggling, furry caterpillar to a beautiful moth or butterfly. Turn them into project and a visual tool to teach children, or yourself, the life cycle of a caterpillar, including the construction of the cocoon. For extra fun, collect two or more different types of caterpillars and compare the results.

Things You'll Need

  • Drill
  • Jar
  • Paper towel
  • Water
  • Garden snips
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill five 1/4-inch holes in the lid of a jar. The holes provide the necessary oxygen to the caterpillar's new home.

    • 2

      Soak two sheets of paper towel in water. Wring them out until they no longer drip. Fold the paper towels and put them in the bottom of the jar as a source of water for the caterpillar.

    • 3

      Search for the caterpillar on plants. Use cuttings of the same plant as the primary food source for the caterpillar.

    • 4

      Cut a twig off of the plant, using a pair of sharp garden snips. The twig must be short enough to fit in the jar. Choose a twig that has plenty of leaves to ensure the caterpillar has food.

    • 5

      Stick the twig in the jar. Pick up the caterpillar and stick it in the jar, then screw the lid in place. Keep the jar near a sunny window, but not in direct sunlight.

    • 6

      Replace the paper towel with new moistened paper towel each day. Check the amount of foliage each day and add more leaves as necessary. Continue this regimen until the caterpillar makes its cocoon.