The larvae grow through several stages or instars, shedding skin each time for roomier ones. When fully grown and the last skin has shed, the caterpillar prepares to pupate by spinning a silken chrysalis. This is similar to a cocoon in a moth. It is wrapped like a mummy. Inside a pupa a beautiful butterfly is being made.
Blood pumping into the veins of the wings causes the wings to unfold.
The butterfly waits for its wings to dry and become stiff and flies away. The time required for this process is different for each species. Many have only one emergence of adults per year, other two or there. The head has a pair of long slender antennae with club knobs. The antennae are used to feel and smell.