Danaus plexippus: Beyond the Fourth Instar – Part I

As a fifth instar, "Seven" is eating voraciously, preparing for a final molt and the chrysalis stage.

As soon as the Monarch caterpillar is large enough to be seen on a milkweed plant, it becomes a potential snack for certain bird species that are not affected by the toxins the caterpillar ingests by eating milkweed. As the caterpillar develops from first through fifth instar, its size and increased mobility make it easier for predators to see. I do not know which… Continue reading Danaus plexippus: Beyond the Fourth Instar – Part I