Change is always hard, but insect metamorphosis is extreme. There are four stages or “waypoints” in the life of a butterfly: egg, larva or caterpillar, pupa and adult. Eggs are laid on specific host plants by winged females. Caterpillars are sexless eating machines, often equipped with amazing adaptations for protection from predators. Although the pupal stage appears to be a time of rest, it’s when the caterpillar’s insides are liquified and completely rearranged to form a winged sexual adult intent on finding a mate. It’s a wonder that the process succeeds at all! How Does a Caterpillar Turn into a Butterfly? | Scientific American
You can create a different kind of butterfly waypoint by growing host plants for local butterflies. The caterpillar shown here on dill herb is the larval stage of the eastern black swallowtail. It’s common and easy to raise on a variety of plants in the family Umbelliferae, which includes dill, fennel, parsley, carrots, and celery. Just plant enough to share.
The stripes and coloration suggest the monarch butterfly, with which it is often confused. But a monarch caterpillar has a pair of black tentacles fore and aft and won’t be found eating anything but milkweed.
