Caterpillar to Butterfly

BY SKEETER

A few weeks ago, I spotted many of these beautiful caterpillars in my Georgia Gardens.

I have never really noticed these caterpillars before but they seem to be every where. On the front porch, in the driveway and in the gardens. As if they had fallen out of the trees. Which I think they did as we had high winds the night before.

I snapped a picture of the one on the front porch and a few days later, discovered this in the spot where the caterpillar once stood. Hum, After a bit of research on the Internet, I think I might have had a Mourning Cloak Caterpillar and now a Chrysalis!

I found the Chrysalis to be interesting with its spiny cover.

I kept my eye on the Chrysalis and low and behold, I saw the butterfly resting by the shell! If only I had been lucky enough to see the butterfly emerge. Oh well, can't have it all...

I carefully placed the butterfly in a container for safe keeping over night. It was listless as if dead and I was sad. Upon further investigation, it was moving a slight bit as if not completely ready to take off. The following morning, I warmed it up with the Desk Light and it rewarded me with open wings! A few snapped pictures and I carefully took the open container into the gardens. The beautiful butterfly fluttered off high into the trees from the warmth of the sun shining on its beautiful colored body. I smiled like a proud mama watching her baby leave the nest! It was a thrilling moment for me. This was the first time I have ever seen a CATERPILLAR TO BUTTERFLY, In the Garden...  
Words and Photos Property of In the Garden Blog Team, In the Garden