Emerging From the Chrysalis
A pictoral essay of the emergence of a butterfly from a chrysalis.
In its early days, the chrysalis is well camoflaged against its surroundings.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
As the adult butterfly matures, its colors and markings can be seen through the chrysalis.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
Prior to hatching, the adult butterfly is clearly visible. Due to the nature of how the wings are
folded within the chrysalis, it is the upperside of the forewings which are visible.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
The chrysalis splits and the butterfly slips out head first.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
The butterfly clasps onto the chrysalis. The body is huge and swollen, due to stored fluids.The wings
are tiny and shrivelled.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
The butterfly pumps the fluid into the veins on its wings, causing the wings to expand.
Queen (Danaus gilippus) (left),
Monarch (Danaus plexippus) (right)
The wings continue to expand while the body continues to contract.
Queen (Danaus gilippus)
After the wings are fully extended, the butterfly hangs with its wings slightly apart while the fluid in
the veins hardens and the wings "dry." When the wings close into the regular resting position, the
butterfly is ready to take flight.
Monarch (Danaus plexippus)
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