How long does it take for a caterpillar to turn into a cocoon

One of the most famous butterflies in the world thanks to their flashy orange wings and migratory habits, the beautiful monarch emerges from an equally beautiful chrysalis.

A monarch chrysalis is light green with a series of shimmering, golden dots on the outside. From a distance, this chrysalis could be confused with a shiny, under-ripe fruit, but the monarch chrysalis doesn't stay green for long.

After around 10 to 14 days, its green color fades, and the chrysalis becomes transparent. This allows an observer to see the fully formed butterfly within.

How long does it take for a butterfly to hatch from a cocoon

When the seam along the top of the chrysalis splits, the monarch emerges. Like all butterflies, it is not ready to fly right away. Its wings are crumpled from being folded inside the chrysalis. The butterfly must hang upside down and pump fluid stored in its abdomen up through the veins in its wings to straighten them.

Then, the butterfly must wait for the damp wings to dry and harden until they are ready to use.