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Butterfly Garden
roberteb

Will caterpillars form chrysalis while laying on their side?

17 years ago

I have had 12 Monarch Caterpillars munching at my Milkweed all week. About half have become chrysalis.

I had one get on my son's bike. He was starting to attach himself, so I moved him, but he wouldn't take. I should have just left him there, but I was afraid the kids would mess with him.

After trying to get him to stick somewhere I gave up and put him in a coffee can laying on its side. He has some paper under him and a stick to latch onto.

When I saw him last night, he was on his side in the J form. I didn't check him on the way to work this morning.

Will they form a chrysalis while laying on their side? If he does, should I somehow attach him hanging so he develops normally.

I know moth cocoons lie on their side all the time, but I have a feeling butterflies have to be hanging to form correctly.

I fee bad for the little guy because I messed him up and now I want to help him.

Featured Answer
  • 17 years ago

    I think you have a pretty good take on the situation. If the cat is successful at forming a chrysalis, I'd just leave it. Monarchs can form chrysalides while lying on their sides.

    I have rotated chrys that are not suspended so as to remove pressure from areas of the chrysalis. It's important not to handle the new chrysalis until it has had time to harden--at least 24 hours.

    Comments (6)

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