The transformation from caterpillar to butterfly typically takes about 4 weeks in total. During this time, the caterpillar (larva) grows and eventually forms a chrysalis (pupa), where it undergoes metamorphosis into a butterfly
. More specifically, the caterpillar stage lasts about 7 to 10 days depending on temperature, during which the caterpillar grows and prepares for pupation
. Then, the chrysalis stage lasts about 2 weeks, during which the caterpillar's body is transformed inside the chrysalis into a butterfly
. In summary:
- Caterpillar (larva) stage: approximately 7-10 days
- Chrysalis (pupa) stage: about 2 weeks
- Total time from caterpillar to butterfly: around 3 to 4 weeks
This timing can vary somewhat depending on the butterfly species and environmental conditions
