How to keep caterpillars alive?

Question

I put 3 caterpillars in a large box full of leaves, dirt, a water hole, and some sticks. Always refreshing it w/ new leaves & new water..yet they keep dying. My boyfriend's daughter is 4 years old and is really attached and I hate how they keep dying - she is so sad! What is the trick in keeping them healthy until they turn into butterflies?

Answer 1

Most caterpillars will only eat one type of plant. Not just any plant you throw in there. Look up what kind of caterpillar you have and find out what it eats. Then you might have better luck.

Answer 2

Just so you realize, the tent caterpillars are relatively harmful (perhaps that's what you intended via, "I recognize approximately fruit timber and all that jazz"), and in case your son does manipulate to preserve it alive, it'll mostly come to be contributing to plenty of harm to timber, because it reproduces as an grownup. So, of direction, you could recognize that they consume tree leaves. I have continuously been the only to preserve whatever my children determined, and would have even attempted to preserve this type of, however they're relatively harmful, even killing timber. Has your son ever determined or saved some other caterpillars? I feel I have heard of a internet site that presents eggs or a few such factor for butterflies. . . if you'll discover that, perhaps you would "import" eggs or a catterpillar that maybe a greater prospect, and with a bit of luck, include recommendations. I like to inspire children to be trained approximately and experience nature. Hope you discover the understanding you wish to have both manner. Another insect that may often be interesting, is the pillbug (rolly-pollys), as they near up in little balls whilst nervous. They don't seem to be as lovable as catterpillars, however would be fascinating. I feel they consume decaying roots. Good good fortune to your seek, for the only you will have, or some thing else your son would discover of curiosity.