April 19th:

We started our own butterfly-growing project. Our teacher organized everything we need for.

We hope to help 5 caterpillars of Vanessa cardui to become a butterfly.

April 20th:

The first caterpillar started to build the cocoon and became chrysalides

April 21st

Two other caterpillar started to build the cocoon and became chrysalides. Before they climbed to the top of the cup they live as they had stored enough energy and were ready to pupate (become chrysalides). There they spinned a silk pad, which was the anchoring point for the chrysalis. The caterpillars used this silk pad to attach themselves to the lids. They hanged in a “j” shape.

 

April 25th

The cocoons were hardened and we could move them from the cozy cup to an airy butterly pavillon habitat.

April 29th

You can't imagine. This morning the birth of our first butterfly happened. Unfortunately we couldn't watch the butterfly "climbing out". But nevertheless we are really astonished about the little miracle:

May 8th

As we had a long weekend, Daniela let the first three butterflies in her garden free. Hopefully we will have the chnace to do so with our other two caterpillars / cocoons: