A few days later they found another one in the backyard toy box - that has a lid on it. Once again, not sure how long he had been in there, without food. We put him in the bug cage with fresh leaves and this time placed very strict rules on how the cage was handled. He also didn't live very long.
Grandma and Grandpa K bought them the Butterfly Garden for their birthday. They couldn't wait to send off for the larva so they could hopefully see the complete transformation take place. Well, we have been out of town a lot so I haven't sent away for them yet. I couldn't bear to see another caterpillar suffer by being left in the mailbox too long.
Last week the girls found three fat, healthy caterpillars in the front flower bed. We brought them in and placed them in the butterfly garden. We put fresh leaves, sticks, and drops of water along the bottom. Every day for a while they woke up and raced to make sure the caterpillars were still alive. I have to admit, I had my doubts, as well.
It only took a few days for one start his cocoon. It really was amazing. He hung upside and stabilized himself with silk. He pushed out all his hairs and within hours had completed his chrysalis. About 5 days later another one did the same. One is still wandering around the cage - I don't think he's going to make it.
Two days ago, tragedy struck. While rough housing, the cage got knocked over. The cocoons fell. Emma was heartbroken. She was very worried that she had killed them.
Yesterday though, the miracle happened. A butterfly emerged. It was exciting for us all! One is still in his cocoon. Hopefully he will be able to make it out alive!
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