Butterfly, Moth & Caterpillar Facts
Butterflies fold their wings straight up. Butterflies have antennae with little clubs on the ends. Butterflies are slim and smooth. Butterflies fly during the day. Butterflies make a hard shell called a chrysalis.
Moths spread their wings out flat. Moths have antennae that look feathery or pointy. Moths are fuzzy and furry. Moths usually come out at night. Moths spin a soft, silky cocoon.
Caterpillars are very important in nature. Birds and other small animals eat them, and some caterpillars help clean up by breaking down dead plants and animals. A caterpillar is a baby butterfly or moth. It hatches from an egg and is called a larva. As it grows, the caterpillar turns into a pupa (also called a chrysalis). Later, it changes into an adult butterfly or moth. Caterpillars have six tiny legs near their head. They also have up to ten soft, squishy “fake legs” near the back to help them move. Some live inside plants, like stems, branches, roots, or even old, dead wood. Most caterpillars are green or brown so they can hide easily. Some are fuzzy and have bright colors. A few caterpillars can be pests because they eat plants, clothes, or stored food.
Pirate's Challenge - AKA "Pirate Math" 