Butterfly Release

Remember those caterpillars we had? Well, they finally cam out of their chrysalis last week. 4 of the five came out without us seeing, but the last one were were able to see. It was really interesting to watch. It was very quick and they don't move for a while.  We had them for about 3 days and then released them last week when it was so warm. 

They had not been very active inside. As soon as I brought them outside they went crazy. The kids loved watching them fly all over. 

Then it was time to release them....

That isn't blood. It is actually meconium from when they exited their chrysalis. 

I had Eli just open the lid and 3 flew out on their own. Ari's expressions of wonderment were fun to watch.

Then I had the kids release the other two by holding them and letting go. This was fun for them. 

I am glad I did this with the kids. It was a fun project and they enjoyed watching their progress every day.