| | | |  | |  | | | | | INSECTS Two methods of collecting insects may be followed. The more difficult is to have sets showing the life cycle of indi-vidual insects. The second method is to collect adult insects, such as butterflies.
The easiest method of following a life cycle is to raise insects. In winter or early spring, look for cocoons, gently detach (with a section of twig if possible) and place in a half- gallon jar with a wide mouth, obtained from restaurants. Punch several air holes in the lid.
One day an adult insect will emerge. If it is a female, it will lay eggs in the jar. Watch for this. Egg-laying occurs within several hours after she emerges from the chrysalis.
When caterpillars emerge from the eggs, around two weeks, begin to drop a few leaves into the jar. Experiment to find the types preferred. Begin with those of plants closest to the place where the cocoon was obtained.
Constant feeding should produce at least a few caterpillars
Nature Lore 161
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