Saturday, May 22, 2010

how long does a moth chrysalis take to hatch?

as soon as a caterpillar turns into a chrysalis, roughly how long does the moth emerge?
Answers:
I believe it depends on the caterpillar species. First, moths do not make a chrysalis, they make cocoons (hairy things). Butterflies make a chrysalis. From Monarch Watch:

"If the pupae are kept at room temperature, the butterflies should emerge from the chrysalis within 10-14 days. Again, cooler temperatures will delay emergence and warmer temperatures will shorten the amount of development time required."

Also, from University of Nebraska:

"Several conditions may influence the development
of the chrysalis, including humidity, temperature and/or
day length. Emergence time usually coincides with host plant
availability."

Please bear in mind that if you are raising this INSIDE, this is a totally artificial environment. Without the true signals from nature, the emergence will take place at a different pace -- and there will be no food available for the adults (if they eat -- some do, some don't). Also, if you have more than one and they mate, there will be no place for the eggs to be laid or the emerging caterpillars to feed.

Having said all that, I should add that I have successfully raised both butterflies and moths, indoors and out. It's a LOT of fun. I usually just watched and waited, myself. The chrysalis or cocoon should start shaking and moving when it is ready to "hatch". A chrysalis will also often start to change color.

Hope this information helps some. Good luck!
It also depends on the environment in which it is kept. Most moths are sensetive to the temp changes %26 keeping it cool (dark basement) for about 10 days then bringing it into a warmer environment (warm sunny windowsill) may jump start the process
ask an entymologist
not sure but i keep bees and thats 21 days same as my chickens take to hatch funny two different species same time.must include this number in my lotto ticket may have magical powers

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