Monarch Butterfly chrysalis

Natural Habitat

Found in various open habitats including gardens, fields, meadows, and roadsides, particularly where milkweed (their larval food plant) is present. They are migratory, traveling long distances.

Diet & Feeding

As a chrysalis, there is no active feeding; it is a pupal stage. The larva (caterpillar) feeds exclusively on milkweed plants. Adult Monarch butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants.

Behavior Patterns

The chrysalis is an inactive, vulnerable stage in the Monarch's life cycle, typically lasting 9-15 days depending on temperature. Inside, the caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis into an adult butterfly. The chrysalis usually hangs upside down from a silken pad attached to a stem or leaf. The vibrant green color provides camouflage.

Risks & Benefits

The Monarch chrysalis itself poses no direct risks. As part of the Monarch lifecycle, it contributes to the species' survival. Monarch butterflies are important pollinators and are a significant part of their ecosystem's food chain. However, Monarch populations face risks due to habitat loss (especially milkweed), pesticide use, and climate change.

Identified on: 9/21/2025