ReBirth

[Mikey]

About two months ago I noticed a Monarch chrysalis attached to my drip irrigation tubing next to wear I sit every morning in the front patio.  Below is a photo of a different one I took at some time in the past.


About 5 days ago I noticed the pretty green color of the chrysalis was darkening and I knew that soon the butterfly would be emerging.  This morning I saw the chrysalis was very dark and I could see the coloring of the Monarchs wings through the chrysalis.  This was a signal to me that the butterfly would likely emerge very soon.


Perhaps an hour after I took this photo I returned.  I missed the actual re-birth.  The Monarch's wings are still somewhat scrunched up though.


Thirty minutes later the wings were filling out more and the butterfly was drying them in the warm sun.  Soon this little guy will be off exploring. 

[Bearb]

Awesome! How long are monarchs in the chrysalis?

[Kittyzee]

Beautiful creature!   

[Esther]

Mikey, that was so exciting. What a wonderful gift our creator has given to you. And now you shared it with us.

[miguynmkoi]

I would be excited too!  Gorgeous shots Mike!

[Indiana Karen]

Great pictures.  I know what you mean about missing the birth.  One time I invited my little neice out to watch one.  We sat and stared at the little chrysalis, she needed a drink, came back out and it was over. 

[karen J]

Beautiful! Nice pictures, too.

I'm also curious about the time span. Had no idea it took that long! We have monarchs here in Illinois, I grow plants for them but for the life of me can't remember the names. 

[Mikey]

I'm guessing the chrysalis was hanging there for about two months.  I wasn't really paying too much attention and it may have been shorter.  I imagine the weather can affect their development.  They are year-round residents here and I notice some of them tend to stay in and around our yard. This particular chrysalis and the resulting butterfly was smaller than most.  The milkweed they need was not as plentiful during the winter months and I also prune some of the plants down to nearly the ground in the winter so that they will put on new foliage.