Life Cycle of Butterflies

Couple of weeks ago, I received a call from Carol and she said that she is intending to get caterpillar kits from a local farm to teach her kids butterfly life cycle and asked if I am interested to get one too. It was a brilliant  idea! I recently covered this topic with JJ and even did some craft work with him. This kit came just in time to refresh his memory, and the best part  is being able to witness the transformation. I am not a fan of creepy crawlies but I soon grew to love them.


The caterpillar kit, consists of 2 fat caterpillars in a plastic container with a mesh cover, a handful of fresh leaves to feed the caterpillars and simple instructions.


I was nervous the first time I opened the kit to change the base paper, clear out the poop and feed them fresh leaves (Those 2 very hungry caterpillars sure can EAT and..well..POOP lots too). All went well with hubby's help and we left them in a cosy corner for them to continue their munching and crunching. Also, accompanying them are the craft work done by JJ (with my help of course ;))

One of them formed into a Chrysalis 2 days later! I happened to be checking them and saw one of them wriggling and then finally shed its skin and antennae for the last time. What a treat. I was a happy and excited  Mummy. It took another 3 days for the 2nd caterpillar to change into a chrysalis.

Later, I found out that this species is known as Leopard Lacewing. The caterpillars feed on the leaves of the Passion Flower Plant, of the genus Passiflora. 


The Leopard Lacewing (Cethosia cyane) is a species of heliconiine butterfly found from India to southern China (southern Yunan), and Indochina. Its range has expanded in the last few decades, and its arrival in the southern part of the Malay Peninsula, including Singapore, is relatively recent. ~ Wikipedia

Our first Leopard Lacewing emerged from the Chrysalis! JJ was delighted! Ever since the caterpillars formed into chrysalis, he had been telling me everyday "Mama, it will change into a butterfly TODAY!" He finally got his wish.

This kit has been very educational and fun, even for myself. In my attempt to teach JJ, I learn and grow together with him. Invaluable!