Science Common Sense
30 - How do butterflies transform from caterpillars?
Imagine a magical change that happens inside a sleeping bag-like covering. It's called metamorphosis. Here's how:
- Caterpillar eats and grows: A caterpillar eats leaves and grows bigger.
- Forms a chrysalis: When it's time, the caterpillar attaches itself to a leaf or branch, and forms a chrysalis (the sleeping bag-like covering).
- Transforms inside: Inside the chrysalis, amazing things happen. The caterpillar's body breaks down and releases special cells that help create new parts, like wings, legs, and eyes.
- New butterfly forms: After a few weeks or months, depending on the species, a brand new butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. Its wings are soft and folded, but as it pumps blood into them, they expand and dry.
- First flight: The new butterfly is ready to fly and start its life!
This magical transformation is unique to butterflies and moths, and it's an incredible process that helps them become the beautiful flying creatures we love to watch.