The evolution of a butterfly is one of the greatest marvels in the world! They are born as larvae and undergo a series of physical changes known as ‘instars’ in which they molt their skin and form a tougher exoskeleton until they grow big enough to be caterpillars. At this point, the caterpillars build up their strength and search for a safe place where they can make the final metamorphosis into a beautiful butterfly. They form a protective pod, known as a chrysalis, inside which the transformation occurs. Even with all of our scientific knowledge, the processes that happen inside the chrysalis largely remain a mystery to nature scientists. That’s why butterflies are truly one of Earth’s most fascinating creatures, and have been for as many as 56 million years!
