I put them in smooth bottom containers, like a margarine container, and they pupate fine.

After that, put the chrysalis in a container that gives the emerging butterfly something to easily climb up. Glass jars don't work unless you provide enough sticks for the butterfly to easily find.

Thanks SO Much for answering so soon! I had my very first Pipevine butterfly hatch yesterday so I was heartbroken to see my Black Swallowtail babies in the dirt!

Here is a link that might be useful: My FB link

I'm sorry your black swallowtail cat fell while pupating, but I imagine it'll be fine if you do what KC says.

The pipevine is a polydamas swallowtail, which, I thought, occurred only in Florida, maybe in south Texas - they use pipevines, too. But your zone number is 7a, and Florida doesn't include any 7a.
Maybe you got some sort of unusual visit?

But regardless, congrats on your polydamas/goldrim swallowtail!

Sherry

UPDATE: I took everyone's advice and saved my fallen Black SWT baby by scooping her onto a shell and placed her under her fennel. I tickled her with a frond every few hours and was happy to see she reacted slightly although she certainly looked dead by sight. This morning I was elated to see she is changing! I will let her stay here protected inside from the rain and when its time, I will let her hatch in the garden. :)

Missherry, Thanks for the heads up about my zone. I AM in FL so my Polydamas SWT is not so unusual in my yard

It's good to see she's pupated successfully!

Sherry

Hello can somebody help me please. I have some caterpillars and one looks to have fallen from the lid. I think it started to chrysalis yesterday. it’s laid at the bottom and worried about touching the cup incase any others fall

Hi!

what happened to the caterpillar? was it able to change into a chrysalis?