Chrysalis Time

Monarchs arrived in the Metro at the beginning of May. We spotted eggs everywhere on the milkweed around the Dodge property. Then we started seeing caterpillars. And now, the monarchs are beginning the next stage in their lives. After shedding their skin one last time as a larva, the monarch is surrounded by the jade green chrysalis. During this time, the insect is particularly vulnerable, so the color of the chrysalis is critical to their survival. The green color helps them blend in with the leaves of the plants where they are hanging out until they emerge as an adult. Depending on the weather, it will take 7-14 days before the next generation of butterflies appear. So, that's what we're looking for next. More butterflies!