Monarch Caterpillar

The monarch larva (caterpillar) molts, or sheds its skin, five times before entering the pupa stage. Each stage is called an “instar”.  A fifth instar Monarch caterpillar hangs upside down in a ‘J’. It spins a silk button to hang from, rests for about 10-12 hours, and then sheds its skin for the final time. The pupa stops wriggling and the outside skin hardens into a protective covering that will protect the newly forming butterfly inside.

I have several swan plants with just a few caterpillars, this is the first one to reach this stage, he's been hanging for a few days while I eagerly await the chrysalis stage.

It's been a sweltering day, 30.4C by 10am! The sun was intense and my poor peonies were drooping under the heat but the washing was dry by morning tea. Round noon the wind came through, a slight drop in temperature and then the southerly forecasted arrived cooling the late afternoon but so far no rain - we need some rain.

Thanks to you all for the lovely words, stars and hearts for my 'spring bee' yesterday, he enjoyed the spotlight for a short time today.

Hope your all having a great Thursday :)