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Page 2 Detailed Care Instructions Transferring the Larvae into the cups (sets of 30 only): 1. Prepare food by combining the bag of dry powder (contains 100 g) with 1¼ cups (296 mL) of distilled or spring water in a clean container. Add the water slowly while mixing well with a spoon until the food is the consistency of stiff cookie dough. The prepared food may be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month. 2. Using the enclosed spoon, place a level spoonful of food into each individual cup and push the food into the bottom of the cup, at an angle. Then, using the paintbrush, very gently place one larva into each cup. 3. Put one lid securely on each cup, and punch several air holes in each lid with a pushpin. 4. Place the cups at room temperature (65 – 80°F), out of direct sunlight, and in an area where they can easily be viewed. The cups should not be shaken or disturbed if possible. As they grow: The caterpillars will grow quite rapidly, producing silky strands that provide shelter and help them move around the container. The caterpillars will excrete waste that looks like brown balls on the surface of the food. It is not necessary to remove the waste from the cups. Periodically, the caterpillars may appear lifeless during the growing period. This is normal and usually indicates that the caterpillar will be molting shortly. Pupation & transferring to a larger cage: When the caterpillars are fully-grown, approximately two weeks after receipt, they will stop feeding, crawl to the top of the cup, and hang down headfirst. Do not disturb the caterpillar at this stage; it is fragile as it transforms into a chrysalis. 1. Wait 24 hours for the chrysalides to harden before transferring them. Carefully remove the lids or paper towel with the attached chrysalides and tape them to the inner sides of your chosen box or cage (470215-426). A strong tape such as electrical tape (470020-186) or masking tape (470093-370) is recommended. You should use a container that has air holes, mesh, etc. to allow for air exchange, but make sure there are no openings large enough for the butterflies to escape through (openings should be ½" or smaller). We recommend a cage that is at least 8"W x 8"D x 6"H for 5 – 6 butterflies, and at least 12"W x 12"D x 9"H for around 30 butterflies. Line the bottom of the cage with paper towels or butcher paper to absorb moisture. 2. If any of the chrysalides have fallen into the bottom of the cup, carefully remove them and gently wipe off any debris. Hang the fallen chrysalis by attaching its small pointed tip to a cotton ball or household string, and then tape the cotton or string to the lid or wall of the cage. Hanging the chrysalides will allow the wings of the butterflies to develop normally. It is very important not to puncture or squeeze the chrysalides during this process. Work very gently, using clean fingers or insect forceps. 3. Mist the chrysalides a few times a day to keep them from drying out, particularly when in a low humidity (<40%) environment.