Monarch Chrysalis: beginning and end

The monarch chrysalis, once formed, appears a pale jade green trimmed in gold and black. This glorious little pod has the appearance of a budded leaf or flower, and looks nothing at all like an insect should.

Over the next 7 to 14 days, depending upon ambient temperature, the former caterpillar undergoes a complete metamorphosis, transforming into a monarch butterfly.

When nearly ready to emerge, the skin of the pupa becomes increasingly transparent. You can see the structures of the antenna, eyes, wings, and body slowly developing within. Right before eclosing (emerging) the pupal skin is generally so transparent that you can readily see the orange color and the patterns of the butterfly wings inside.

Once the butterfly exits the pupa, the remaining chrysalis skin is clear and has a very papery feel.