Lux-Mil is getting close to shedding. Half of today was spent wondering about the plant, looking for the "perfect spot". I was checking in and cleaning the cage, so I thought I would get a little video of Lux-Mil. And to my surprise, I was able to catch the silk walk on Video!! Talk about a lucky shot LOL.
Both moth and butterfly caterpillars have the ability to produce silk, similar to a spider. They lose this capability though once they pupate and become butterflies and moths, because it is no longer needed. As caterpillars, they use their silk in a variety of ways. From the day they hatch from egg, they use the silk to help them stay attached to the plants. They also use it for safety getaways, and to create a silk pad to shed, or a button to pupate. Caterpillars produce silk through a “spinneret”. This tube-like structure is located on the lower side of the caterpillar’s mouth. Silk is generated as a liquid in the salivary glands and excreted through the spinneret; as it makes contact with air, it turns into a silk strand.
Lux-Mil is showing signs of shedding soon. One of the tale tale signs are, Lux-mil is wondering about. The only reason a caterpillar will wonder about is, eaither to shed, or to pupate. This is absolutely normal, and you should just leave them alone. They are not lost, and if they crawl off the plant, don't worry, they will find it again. They will find the perfect spot and hang out in that area for up to 24 hours. They're putting together their fashion sense, and about to show you their new threads.
However, while cleaning up the cage, Lux-Mil decided to show off more than I was expecting LOL. Yup, the frass is getting bigger already, and Lux-Mil is only 3 days old. But this is another sign that shedding is close. trying to eliminate completely before hand, and, Lux-Mils is almost twice the size from hatching. The skin is tight and dull in color. So won't be long now. Hopefully I'm lucky enough to get in on camera!
I'm getting really excited for Spring to come. I Know it's right around the corner. And not only is the garden starting to wake up, but so are some of the overwintering chrysalids. While cleaning Lux-Mils cage, I had a Pipevine Swallowtail emerge! I'll share more on her in another post. But here is a peek at her, and my rearing set up.
I truly hope I inspire you to start planing your garden, so come Spring, you will know exactly what to plant in-order to attract these beauties to your yard. I look forward to helping you along the way. So until next time, Peace, Love, and Butterflies. ✌🏼💝🦋🦋
