More biology, this time learning about caterpillars!
We have lots of nasturtiums in the garden and noticed many caterpillars on them so decided to try raising some to butterflies. The jar is actually meant to hold a candle but seemed large enough and we've put a piece of fine mesh over the top held down with one of Papaya's old elastic hairbands (with a butterfly on it appropriately enough). We used these instructions to help (Rearing Caterpillars) and took cautionary advice from another home ed friend who tried it herself only to discover the caterpillars had become hosts to millions of fly eggs.... ew!! We only managed to get two of the same type so plan to keep our eyes open to find some other varieties. Fingers crossed they pupate and emerge as butterflies!
#UPDATE#
Using this website (Identify Caterpillars) we think we've identified them as Large Whites! Let's wait and see......
We have lots of nasturtiums in the garden and noticed many caterpillars on them so decided to try raising some to butterflies. The jar is actually meant to hold a candle but seemed large enough and we've put a piece of fine mesh over the top held down with one of Papaya's old elastic hairbands (with a butterfly on it appropriately enough). We used these instructions to help (Rearing Caterpillars) and took cautionary advice from another home ed friend who tried it herself only to discover the caterpillars had become hosts to millions of fly eggs.... ew!! We only managed to get two of the same type so plan to keep our eyes open to find some other varieties. Fingers crossed they pupate and emerge as butterflies!
#UPDATE#
Using this website (Identify Caterpillars) we think we've identified them as Large Whites! Let's wait and see......
