Butterfly Hatching

Danaus spp. hatching from chrysalis.

A pupa is the intermediate stage between larvae and adult in a number of species. For butterflies, the term chrysalis is used for butterflies while the silk casing for a moth is called a cocoon. A successful hatching from the pupae by a butterfly depends on a number of factors. Two of these factors are keeping out of direct sunlight and ideal humidity, with some variation per species. Another factor is the position of the pupae. If it isn't upside down, the hatching insect may either damage the wings or be unable to escape and will die. The wings must then dry correctly or they will be permanently crippled.

This animated photo comes from my earlier posting to Google+. I do not recommend holding a chrysalis or cocoon while something is trying to emerge. In this case, the chrysalis fell, and before I had time to re-pin it, the butterfly tried to emerge. I knew what to expect and what to do. After it was free, I let this butterfly grip a nearby stick in the shade to allow it to dry.