I wanted to grow parsley last spring so bought a plant to set out in my small farm garden. As it flourished, I clipped a few sprigs to bring to our home in town to use. However, when I went to wash them, I found six barely visible TINY
caterpillars I suspected were future Monarchs. Instead, Google showed they were beautiful future Black Swallowtails that thrive on parsley or dill. Their metamorphosis became a family project we watched and loved in each distinct stage. Even as caterpillars, their color markings indicated if were male or female.
Today the first large beautiful female hatched and emerged successfully, preening her wings, ready to fly, before I carefully released her outside. It was a simple but amazing process our family loved. I posted pictures of the stages for you to enjoy!
Lesson 1–When it was time to eat, they ate with all their hearts and did NOT get distracted.
Lesson 2–When it was time for their next phase, they climbed up the pitiful sticks I offered until they found a perfect spot to rest.
Lesson 3–When it was time to rest, nothing stopped them. They spun a simple fiber harness that attached them to a branch and leaned back into sleep.
Lesson 4–Before entering deep sleep, they wiggled like a woman working her way out of pantyhose until their outer caterpillar covering slipped away and the protective chrysalis finished forming and hardening inside—it was a fascinating process to watch.
Lesson 5–They hung and slept motionless in their cocoons for ten to fourteen days until the same inner voice that guided them during each stage told them it was time to split their cocoon and they dropped out and worked their wings until those opened, fully formed, lustrous and beautiful.
Lesson 6–and then, they flew!
What is the most beautiful lesson in nature you have seen and loved? What made it unforgettable?
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