Hi! This is my first year raising Monarchs and I must admit I am hooked. I found my first 2 caterpillars on the milkweed by my pond when they were in the second instar. I found 2 more that were in the 4th instar but sadly they were on plants that were sprayed with roundup, one did not make it through the pupa attempt but one did make it and is now in the eclose cage with a beautiful crysalis. the 2 original caterpillars are doing very well and are expected to pupa anyday now.

I cant find the post again but a big shout out to the person who posted the DIY enclosures made from tomato cages and paint strainers, they work fantastic!!