metamorphosis. Notice how the body segments are clearly defined and puffy. Often the caterpillar will have a greenish hue. The caterpillar is in the "J" formation. This "J" is uncurling, another sign of change. Moments before the transformation begins, the three sets of front legs will be tucked in toward the skin and the "J" will open with an aparent muscle contraction. The back of the skin will splits open as the transformation begins. Metamorphasis from larva to pupa takes about 6 minutes, with an additional 30 - 60 seconds of twisting to detach the shedded skin.(Note: The chrysalis behind the "J" is only minutes old.)
