Two Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars formed their leaf-like chrysalids last fall. They hung from branches from a single, gossamer strand. I put their enclosure on the front porch so that they could withstand the harsh New England winter.
It seemed unlikely to me that these two small chrysalids would lay in dormancy all winter and then emerge as butterflies in the warmer months.
As the days grew warmer and flowers began to bloom, there was no sign of life stirring within the chrysalids. However, on the afternoon of May 25th, I was surprised by the flutter of wings within the enclosure.
A miracle! My children, their friends, and our neighbors enjoyed our first butterfly release party of the year.
The next day, the other butterfly awoke from its slumber. Again, we gathered together to experience the beauty of a butterfly taking flight for the first time.
The dormancy and awakening of the butterflies reminded me of this blog. Through the fall and winter, the blog lay untouched. Now, I hope that like a butterfly, my words will take wing.
Hellstrip Heaven 