I checked faithfully on the chrysalis everyday. Day 2 was remarkable because of the beautiful gold ornate "bumps." The one around the top is known as "the golden zipper." Even on day 2, I could see the beginnings of the wing pattern starting to form. I couldn't get over how beautiful the chrysalis was.
Day 3 looks pretty similar to Day 2.
On day 4 the wing pattern appears to become more defined.
Day 5: no apparent change.
I have to be honest. By day 6, I was getting tired of waiting--tired of not seeing any real changes. What the heck was going on inside there? And why couldn't I see any more apparent changes on the outside? How many ways can a photographer think to photograph the same little green chrysalis? I was getting impatient.
So much so, that I forgot to take a photo on Day 7. I was no longer so enthralled with the process. I knew something was going on inside the little green package, but I was recording the process more out of duty than true desire. I had better things to do every morning at 10am than photograph a little green chrysalis. My dishes were calling my name. Continuing to photograph this little guy felt like an interruption in my day.
But, on day 8, I discovered a huge change. What in the world? How did this little guy change so fast? What a surprise! When I was least expecting it, all of a sudden, that little green chrysalis was no longer green, but clear. Translucent. And, wow, what a transformation! To think that I had grown impatient, and had almost gotten too busy to keep waiting. I could have completely missed it!
I promise to finish the story, and post butterfly pictures sooner than later!
Again, all photos taken with my 100mm, f/2.8 macro lens. Some photos are cropped in to show more detail.
Thanks, Kristina! Can't wait to see the rest. Beautiful
ReplyDeleteThere are a number of books out there on caterpillars turning to butterflies, but your photoquality & comments make this a better read. You could publish a beautiful book!
ReplyDeleteThe transformation is pretty amazing, glad you (& Monique Crissan) have posted the process.
ReplyDeleteYour insights are as beautiful as the photos, Kristina!
ReplyDelete