The Life Cycle of a Butterfly

1. The Life Cycle of a Butterfly This project was created using the fair use guidelines by Michelle A. Collins.

2. Life Cycle • Butterflies, insects, and moths have a complete life cycle. This means that there are four separate stages, each of which looks different and serves a different purpose in the life of the insect.

3. Stage One – The Egg • The egg is a tiny, round, object, usually with fine ribs and other structures which is laid by the female butterfly. The female attaches the egg to leaves or stems. • The leaf or stem will become the caterpillar’s food.

4. Stage Two – The Caterpillar or Larva The caterpillar or larva is the long worm-like stage of the butterfly. During this stage, the caterpillar is growing and feeding on leaves. As it grows, it can shed its skin four or more times so as to enclose its rapidly growing body.

5. Stage Three – Transformation Stage • The pupa or chrysalis is the resting or transformation stage, and this is where the big change from caterpillar to adult takes place. • This is the stage when the caterpillar tissues are broken down and the adult insect's structures are formed.

6. Stage Four - Adult • The adult is a colorful butterfly which we see in our garden or backyard. This is the mobile stage when the butterfly can fly to start a new family or find a new home.

7. New Vocabulary Words • Cycle – A series of events • Larva - An early form of an animal • Caterpillar - The larva of a butterfly

8. Vocabulary Words – Continued • Pupa - The form that a caterpillar takes in the changing stage. • Chrysalas- A protective covering • Transformation - To change

9. Bibliography • http://www.tooter4kids.com/LifeCycle/Stages.htm • http://www.kidsbutterfly.org/life-cycle