Tag Archives: monarch

When Murray is in the Fifth Instar (sung to the tune of the Age of Aquarius)

Posted on August 9, 2010 by admin

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 →

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Murray Is Molting

Posted on August 8, 2010 by admin

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 →

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Murray is Chowing Down

Posted on August 7, 2010 by admin

The Monarch caterpillar only eats the milkweed plant (genus Asclepias). Murray is going through a growth spirt because he is now eating like crazy. This photo is a great view of Murray eating the edge of the leaf. You can see … Continue reading →

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Murray is Growing

Posted on August 5, 2010 by admin

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 →

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Murray On His Leaf

Posted on August 4, 2010 by admin

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 →

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