The Pupa or Chrysalis Stage

The pupa hardens about an hour after being exposed to the air. The pupa hangs without moving for a while. Inside the pupa a wonderful change is happening. This is called metamorphosis. Although the pupa looks lifeless, there is a lot going on inside as the caterpillar is literally liquefied and then reassembled as a butterfly. As humans we find it hard to understand this process but it is sufficent to say it is one of natures miracles at work.