Monday August 13, 2007

INFORMATION ON MY MONARCH EGGS AND CATERPILLAR

Due to some questions and interest in what I am doing.

I understand that all you have to do is keep the milkweed alive by placing it in a glass or vase of water.  Then put the glass/vase in a container that can be covered so the caterpillar and later butterfly doesn’t escape – also the screen is usually where it will attach the chrysalis.

My SIL said if the milkweed dries up during the process, get a new stem and transfer the caterpillar to it.  (I doubt that eggs can be transferred.)

You will want to release the butterfly when it is ready to fly, as a screened-in aquarium is much too small for them.

 A screen-covered aquarium is great – and I’m trying to locate a free one in our neighborhood!  (My brother just returned my call as I am typing this – he thinks they have several aquariums. )

This is also a learning process for me.  So don’t expect any expert advice. 

I’m quite pleased that Michael – if its a girl, she will be Michelle – my caterpillar, is still alive and munching on the leaf this morning – and making lots of “poo dirt”.

My SIL said the bottom of the container/aquarium will get quite dirty, because all they do is eat and poo.

I found an interesting link at http://www.monarchbutterflyusa.com/Cycle.htm

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I will be grateful for any advice from those who have tried this.