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Caterpillar Beginnings
The eggs of a female moth hatch into larvae, or caterpillars. A young caterpillar will do little else but eat, often leaves and flowers. The caterpillar at this stage is gathering strength before building and hibernating in the cocoon. The food the young larvae consume as caterpillars will sustain them during the long wait in the cocoon.
The Pupal Stage
The pupal stage is the inactive, transformative stage in the life of a caterpillar, when it enters the cocoon. This stage comes after the larval stage but before adulthood. During pupation, larval structures break down so that the adult body can be formed. When the caterpillar is ready to enter this next stage of life, it will find an isolated place, such as a tree branch. Certain types of caterpillars will bury into the ground. It is important that the pupa forms the cocoon in a safe place because a cocoon is an easy catch for a potential predator.
Building the Cocoon
To build its cocoon, the caterpillar emits a glue-like substance from two glands. This is known as "silk" and will be the main material that forms the cocoon. The caterpillar usually builds a cocoon just large enough to house its body. The cocoon typically is attached to a branch or leaf in a safe and secure environment.
Characteristics of a Cocoon
There is a wide variety of caterpillars and therefore a diversity of cocoon types. Cocoons can be many different colors. They may be translucent or solid. Some cocoons are soft while others are hard and stiff. The cocoon is determined by the type of caterpillar which constructs it. To emerge from the cocoon, the butterfly or moth either cuts itself out, or secretes a softening liquid which allows the creature to break open the walls of the cocoon.