How to Raise a Caterpillar From a Cocoon

Caterpillars are the worm-like creates that eventually turn into butterflies and moths. The insects have segmented bodies and rows of eyes on both sides of the body. There are several types of caterpillars and each will turn into a different variety of butterfly or moth. Raising a caterpillar through the larval and pupal stages correctly will ensure that it completes the metamorphosis into a majestic flying creature.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic enclosure
  • Twigs
  • Branches
  • Leaves
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate a caterpillar in your own backyard. Different species of caterpillars live under varying types of plants and leaves. For instance, according to the University of Wisconsin, the caterpillars of a Monarch butterfly live under milkweed plants.

    • 2

      Lay a paper towel in the bottom of a plastic enclosure and place the caterpillar inside of the plastic enclosure.

    • 3

      Provide several small twigs or branches for the caterpillar to hide under and crawl on during its stay.

    • 4

      Feed the caterpillar a diet of fresh leaves. Pick the leaves from healthy plants in your backyard and continue to feed the caterpillar on a daily basis. Place the leaves in the enclosure at night as many species of caterpillar are nocturnal. Remove any uneaten leaves the next morning.

    • 5

      Continue to feed the caterpillar until it loses interest in food. Once this occurs, watch the caterpillar as it makes its way up a twig and enters the pupal stage.

    • 6

      Allow the caterpillar to remain undisturbed during the pupal stage. The amount of time the caterpillar will remain in the cocoon depends upon the species. For instance, a Black Swallowtail will remain in the cocoon for two weeks.

    • 7

      Watch the enclosure until and the moth or butterfly emerges, then take it outside and set it free. This will ensure that the new flying insect can search for food and find mates.