How to Tell the Difference Between a Pupa and a Cocoon ... | 台北市立動物園資訊網

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Among insects, butterflies and moths are unique, transforming through four distinct life stages. These four stages include embryo, larva, pupa and imago. When referring to the third stage in the life cycle of butterflies, the term chrysalis is used instead of pupa. A cocoon is a hard protective outer covering woven by the moth to cover the pupa. It attaches its cocoon to a leaf, branch or any surface using an intricate web if silk-like threads spun in a pattern that resembles Velcro. When moths transform into pupae, they are immobile, and need the protective outer shell of the cocoon to keep them safe from predators. Without the cocoon, moth pupae would be very vulnerable to predation.

Locate a moth cocoon or butterfly chrysalis. Find these outdoors in parks, woodlands, meadows, or suburban yards. Teachers may want to purchase a butterfly house and kit to raise butterflies inside the classroom. Find moth cocoons close to the ground, usually attached to shrubs, leaves, fe...