Transforming

The black swallowtail in the closeup (top left) has just molted its old tight orange and black skin with the fleshy tufts, for a roomier, smoother version. The old skin is left behind, and the old head cap is visible near the front legs. It will soon resume feeding and the white bands will turn green, as shown in the 5th instar (bottom left).

Soon these caterpillars will pupate. Some will stay in the chrysalis until next spring; some will emerge as butterflies in 10 - 14 days.