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The wisteria blooming on the fence that hides the compost bins.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

The Caterpillar Farm: Part Deux: Black Swallowtail Begins

One of the things I've learned about raising butters is that when they get ready to find that perfect spot to pupate they like to wander off so it's best to keep a lid on things. This one transformed itself on the outside of the terrarium

and escaped into the dining room.
DH found her when he was spraying down the roof of the house on a hot day. 
Another one was never found and I have to think one of our four legged residents may have had a snack - although, they are not supposed to be tasty at all.

I wonder if you can send out a "Butterfly Alert" à la Batman?
And what would they do when they arrive? Maybe wrap their delicate wings around your shoulders?

We carefully captured her and then...

Free, free at last! It happened very quickly and she seemed to disappear into thin air. Quite exhilarating.
Posted by Paula at 7:49 PM
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7 comments:

  1. Lovely. Tender. A beautiful essay in words and pictures.

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  3. So pretty, I wonder if we have Swallow Tails in California.

    Spraying the roof with water, is that common?

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  6. BC, they inspire loveliness.

    a, it's a labor of love.

    PA, we don't seem to do things the way anyone else does so for us it's common.

    bc, it's nice, isn't it?

    AH, hope to have some more soon.

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  7. Beautiful - the words, the images, the sentiment.

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