You're most welcome! Hopefully, someone can answer whether Gulf Frits need to hang or not. I have a zebra ST chrysalis that's scotch-taped to a stick right now, LOL! All you can do is try your best. Imagine where he'd be if he didn't have you helping him!
Is this the same as the cat. that feed on pipevine?
Ah, we do what we can, when we can. You've been very patience in helping me a newbie. Many thanks, also to Cat~, Debnes, Sheila, Felicia and especially to Thea for lot of moral support, too. Nite nite everyone.
Great job Kim!
GFs do not need to hang. . You can hang them with unflavored dental floss or similar string. The only problem would be if they were stuck in a pool of fluid after eclosing. The first fluid that they release.. (That's why I always put a paper towel below or under them.) It is blood, but don't be alarmed, it is perfectly normal.
debnes
This message was edited Nov 13, 2007 7:07 PM
Oh good! I was also thinking the only danger with setting them on something is easier access by predators. But then I couldn't remember if they were in a safe house or not. I've got two in chrysalis right now and I'm hoping they come out around Thanksgiving weekend when I'm home from work!
Ah, if they don't need to be hung, I'll let them on the leaves...I don't want to disturb their delicate little bodies while they're pupating. And yes, Malenie they're in a safe cage. Safe from other predators. I wash my passi branches out real well before I place them in side in glass of water. :-)
Oh yes, the cage is made of nylon like material, easy to clean and wash off when they're off on their way.
Kim
Speaking of ...getting off on their merry way... Wooooohooooo, my second G.F. eclosed; the pic. is not at its best. But this baby is ready to be released. It has been a great day working in the garden, and perfect way to call of the day. My baby is ready to spread its wings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kim
Something isn't going according to plan....my little G.F. remained on my roses over night. What's up with that? I gently moved the baby to a sunny spot where my salvia is in bloom, after I let her basks herself on the sun on top of this Chresanthemium for a while.
She's struggling to get her wings dried? I hope she'll be okay, it's a beautiful day out.
Sweet pics Kim!
Congrats on your beautiful fritillary!!
debnes
Well, butterflies do roost on plants so maybe it was comfy. What was the temp like today? I read that butterflies have to bask and get their body temp up to 85 degrees before they can fly.
Thanks Deb, Mellie (((((hug))))), thank you for that bit of info. Temp. only on the 70'ish here. No wonder my baby took so long getting itself ready for take off. Woooohoooo, it's on its merry way now.
The first zebra ST I released sat on my roof for about 15 minutes before it took off. I figured it liked those nice warm shingles. I've been hoping as the temps cool I'll get more pictures of the butterflies basking. In the spring I remember seeing a few Spicebush STs basking, but it's been so warm here there hasn't been a need. I'm also hoping the cooler weather will slow them down - I can't keep up with them! Glad to know your GF flew off to begin his life's journey.
I'm glad you're there to share some of these helpful info. I'm like a new Momma, don't know what I can do best for my babies. lol.
