A Life Cut Short
I had just finished my work in the lower gardens and began walking toward the house when something caught my eye. It was hanging off the cement deer that was a gift from a neighbor and yes, I have a cement deer! (This photo was taken the following day after the caterpillar had begun to pupate.)
Upon closer examination I discovered I happened upon a Monarch caterpillar in its early stage of transformation.
In the few moments I spent taking photos I could see subtle changes.
I made a promise to observe the metamorphosis of this gentle creature. By the following day she had already shed her skin and changed into her chrysalis stage.
Eight days later I observed the subtle changes of color as the wings began to develop.
But there appeared to be something more.
Four days later I discovered there would be no butterfly emerging from this chrysalis.
Even in her short life she was a beautiful magical creature. I am fortunate her relatives grace the gardens!
Thank you for spending another moment in the gardens!
Such a shame that the beauty will not be able to show itself
I know, I was sad to find it’s demise.
A concrete deer? Well I never. Great pictures.
We came home one day and found it in our driveway. Since it was a gift I had to give it a home!
A very nice photo story capturing one the many facets of the natural life cycles going on every day. Thank you for sharing.
Those photos are wonderful – I hope one day you will be able to photograph the metamorphosis in its entirety.
Oh, Bonnie, so so sad. But you did capture the beauty of life, no matter how short. Great documentation!
Your photos are beautiful. It is a shame that it’s life was cut short, but you showed a beautiful photo log of the circle of life.
Just adorable the wonder of it , now I know the meaning of metamorphosis thanks for that lovely series
How amazing to witness this transformation. Your photos remind me what miracles butterflies really are.