Observation date: November 20, 2009
Submitted by: Robert Gorman
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Hand raised monarch, note scent gland, the black spots on top side hind wing. These are the easiest to raise of all butterfly's. when newly hatched like this one the wings are wet from fluid that they use to inflate the wings. this step is very important if it does not go well the butterfly is crippled and won't be able to fly. Raising monarchs is great fun for young and old just plant some milkweed. when you get larva poke holes in jar lid or cover top with old a piece of old nylon stocking. feed new leaves daily, must be milkweed its all they can eat. in about three weeks they make a pupa, and will hatch in about 18 days. pupa turns black then clear. you will see color of wings through pupa wall. on dry warm day it will be ready to fly in about one hour or less. take caution or you will get hooked on this activity! monarchs are said to be the most widely spread butterfly. Try this you will love it.
Status: Temporary Colonist
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: November 12, 2013
Coordinator notes: I raised a Monarch once, but generally I don't rear.
