When Do Caterpillars Cocoon?

After about 4 to 5 days (some species take up to 3 weeks or longer), the egg hatches and a tiny larva (caterpillar) emerges. The larva starts to eat and will shed its skin 4 to 6 times as it gets bigger and bigger. After about 2 to 4 weeks, the larva will be full-grown and transform itself into a pupa/chrysalis.

What time of year do caterpillars cocoon?

Caterpillars who hatch in the summer often have time to mature during the warm season. Some have time to pupate and emerge as adult butterflies or moths, but others take advantage of the protection of the cocoon or chrysalis to get them through the cold winters.

What time of year do caterpillars turn into butterflies?

Since it is often cool when Generation 1 larvae are developing, it may take them up to 40 or 50 days, or even more, to develop from eggs to adults. Generation 1 adults emerge from late April to early June.