Tag Archives: butterfly

Well, glad I did not go to sleep! At about 1:15 am, Murray’s feet let go and he formed the J shape. The photo is still through the mesh but I will attempt to remove it in the morning and … Continue reading →

A very exciting day! Murray has begun the pupation process. This afternoon (8-12-10), Murray worked his way slowly up to the highest part of his habitat which is the twig that I placed spanning the jar opening. He had stopped … Continue reading →

Murray is definitely long for his age. He measures a whopping 3 cm (or 30 mm) in length. According to the U. of Minnesota’s Field Guide to Monarch Caterpillars, fourth instar caterpillars should measure from 13 to 25 mm in … Continue reading →

Monarch caterpillars go through five instars (the period between molts). He stopped eating early today and lives attached to the underside of the leaf – this is the second time I have observed this behavior and indicates the beginning of … Continue reading →

I changed his leaf and emptied the water jar (with his poop inside). He is growing and slowly wanders around his kingdom. In this photo, you can see the caterpillar’s head capsule (the two semi-circular portions at the upper portion … Continue reading →

Murray is home! Today, I transfered him from a little jar and some ratty milkweed to a much bigger jar which will be his home until he emerges as an adult. I removed him from his leaf and placed him … Continue reading →