Anthony has been in the "J" position for about 7 hours so far.
Very exciting as this is the first one of my Striped Crew to do so this year!
By the time I wake-up later today, I will have my first Chrysalis.
I am waiting to post the pictures until I have my sequence completed when the beautiful green Chrysalis exists.
Facts n' Info:
1. Caterpillars have a chemical hormone in the brain called the "juvenile hormone".
2. Each caterpillar will shed it's skin several times while they are a caterpillar; each time they become a larger caterpillar. Their system knows that it is going to shed it's skin to become larger because the "juvenile hormone" is high in it's system.
3. When the "juvenile hormone" is low, the caterpillar will then wander to find a safe place and spin a "pre-pupal" thread to attach themselves and assume what is termed the "J Position". Literally, the hanging caterpillar is in a "J" shape. During this time, the caterpillar is relaxing into it next phase.
4. When the caterpillar skin becomes loose and slouchy in this "J" position, the next phase called "Pupa" begins.
5. The skin will split loosely behind the head of the caterpillar and in convulsive waves, the skin is forced up to be shed off.
6. Underneath this skin, is the beautiful Pupa or Chrysalis.
Pictures later today (as it is 1:21 a.m on Monday)!
MNN
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