A new butterfly

We had an amazing butterfly hatch recently. It was the largest of its kind that we have had. This is the Spicebush Swallowtail, which I have had in other posts. Our Spicebush was host to so many caterpillars this season that I lost count.



This caterpillar is remarkable in that it changes color and texture as it grows. It starts out rough and bumpy, brown and white,




and develops into a smooth, bright green critter with huge fake eyes, to fool its predators.




Then as it gets ready to change, it turns yellowish,




arches its back,



and then becomes a brown chrysalis.




Mia was so happy to have been here for the unveiling of this huge specimen.




And it was also unusual as it was a very calm one. Usually this species won't sit still for a picture.



On this day we were able to have lots of quality time with it before Mia released it. I often wonder where the different colors come from. Here the caterpillar went from brown and white to green and yellow, with a brown chrysalis. Where did it get its orange spots??