Butterflies Hatch! Life Cycle Diagrams

As an entomologist, I’m fascinated by the incredible metamorphosis of butterflies! This amazing journey involves four distinct stages, each captured beautifully in the following life cycle diagrams.

Six Butterfly Species, One Dazzling Transformation

Explore the metamorphosis of six butterfly species through these detailed diagrams. Each image showcases the butterfly’s journey from a tiny egg to a munching caterpillar, a mysterious chrysalis, and finally, a stunning adult butterfly.

butterfly life cycle diagram — Black Swallowtail Butterfly

illustration of butterfly life cycle — Painted Lady Butterfly

swallowtail egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, butterfly — Pipevine Swallowtail

4 stages of butterfly life cycle - egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, adult butterfly — Red Admiral Butterfly

Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly Life Cycle — Spicebush Swallowtail

butterfly life cycle illustration of black and white butterfly, egg, larva, and pupa — Zebra Swallowtail

Witnessing the Magic

By following the arrows on the diagrams, you’ll witness the dramatic transformation that takes place within each stage. The caterpillar completely breaks down and rebuilds itself inside the chrysalis, emerging as a winged adult!

Ready to Dive Deeper?

These diagrams provide a fantastic snapshot of the butterfly’s life cycle. But what if you could actually see this amazing transformation happen? Check out the linked article “4 Stages of the Butterfly Life Cycle” and videos and a more detailed explanation of the metamorphosis process!