The complete life cycle of the butterfly is known as metamorphosis. The monarch goes through four stages of life: egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, and butterfly. Click on the image of each stage to learn more about it. EGG Most butterflies, including monarchs, lay their eggs singly, one egg per leaf on specific plants. CATERPILLAR The caterpillar remains on the plant where the egg was laid and feeds.
CRYSALIS (PUPA) When the caterpillar molts for the last time, it forms a chrysalis. The body of a butterfly forms inside the chrysalis. ADULT After about 14 days, the adult monarch butterfly emerges from its crysalis.
