This is a remarkable change from egg to adult, known as metamorphosis. Butterflies look completely different at each stage of their lives. The most important role for an adult is to find a partner for mating. Butterflies use their colors to find each other. Each species has its own select food plant.
Eggs are small and laid singly or in rows, stacks or masses depending on the species.
When they have mated and the female has laid her eggs, the adults die. 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.