How to Care for Caterpillar Cocoons

Select a method for containing your cocoon. It is helpful if you know the type of cocoon you have, whether it is a butterfly or a moth, and what type of butterfly or moth. If you do not know, using an open container will be safest for most types. A terrarium allows you to watch the growth process. It also helps you to keep watch on any predators that may invade the space.

Put your cocoon into the container, making sure the cocoon is stable and will not fall or slide. Place a netting over the top of the terrarium to discourage spiders or other predators. If you do not have a terrarium, a bucket will suffice quite well. Lightly spray a fine water mist around the cocoon, not directly onto it. Depending on how old your cocoon is, a butterfly or moth may emerge in a week or two.

Overwinter a cocoon if a butterfly or moth has not emerged after a couple of weeks. Overwintering means that you will be keeping the cocoon very cool and safe until the weather warms again. This can be done by placing the container into the refrigerator and misting with water. Because you should not expect a butterfly to emerge right away, place the cocoon into a tall cup or open food storage container. Keep the netting over the container.

Mist every 14 days but watch closely to see that the cocoon is not molding. Make sure the pupae has plenty of airflow by not stacking anything on top of the container. In the spring, take the container from the refrigerator and place it in the home where it can come back to a normal temperature. Keep cocoons away from direct sunlight or other heat sources. After a day or two, it is safe to put it outdoors in the container until it hatches.