1. Egg Stage 🥚
The journey begins with a female Painted Lady laying a clutch of 250 to 500 tiny, green eggs on the leaves of host plants like thistles or mallows. Each egg hatches within 3-5 days, beginning the next stage of life.
2. Larva (Caterpillar) Stage 🐛
For about 10 days, the caterpillar eats voraciously, molting four times as it grows. It spins silk to create a web where it can rest and continue feeding protected.
3. Pupa (Chrysalis) Stage 🦋
Next is the chrysalis stage, lasting around 7-10 days. The caterpillar transforms inside the protective case, preparing for its debut as a butterfly.
4. Adult Butterfly Stage 🦋
Emerging fully formed, the Painted Lady dries its wings before taking flight in search of food and mates. Adults live for approximately 2-4 weeks.