This Queen caterpillar is in the same species as the Monarch.
They both depend on milkweed as food for their larva or caterpillars.
A newly emerged Queen butterfly, almost strong enough to take flight!
Newly emerged black swallowtail caterpillar on fennel, the egg is still attached and is no bigger than the head of a pin. In three weeks it will be a beautiful butterfly!
This black swallowtail butterfly is newly emerged from its chrysalis.
Another newly emerged black swallowtail drying its wings.
Its wings need to expand and dry before it can fly.
Almost strong enough to fly, which usually happens within a few hours after they emerge.
Photographed immediately before it took off, wings fully open and strong enough to support its first flight!
The detail on these tiny, fragile creatures is magical!
Francie Stoutamire Photography
