Fun Facts About Caterpillars…That You Probably Didn’t Know, Right?

The journey of caterpillar to butterfly has inspired some of the most profound quotes, analogies and metaphors. Butterflies are also known for their grace and elegance, even Muhammad Ali said one must, “float like a butterfly.” For that, we are grateful….so here are some fun facts about the cute little crawlers!

-Caterpillars go through several stages or instars (the phase between two series of molting). When they grow bigger from stage to stage, they shed their skin to reveal their unique coloring.

-Caterpillars are picky eaters! For the two weeks before they cocoon, their only mission is to eat…and eat…and eat. But, just because they eat a lot doesn’t mean they eat just anything. Different caterpillars, much like humans, prefer different plants.

-During their juvenile life, caterpillars can increase their body mass by 1000x or more!

-Scientists only recently discovered the cells that cause the metamorphosis…before this time, it was uncertain just how these creatures made the jump to getting their wings!

-The butterfly emerges with its wings tucked to its body. Once a butterfly is used to its surroundings, then blood is pumped into its wings.