The life cycle of a butterfly consists of four stages:
Egg: The life cycle begins with a female butterfly laying eggs on a host plant. The eggs are usually laid on the underside of leaves.
Larva (Caterpillar): Once the egg hatches, a larva, also known as a caterpillar, emerges. The caterpillar's main goal is to eat and grow. It molts several times as it grows and eventually reaches a point where it is fully grown.
Pupa (Chrysalis): The caterpillar then forms a protective casing around itself called a chrysalis or pupa. Inside this casing, the caterpillar undergoes a process called metamorphosis, during which it completely transforms into a butterfly.
Adult (Butterfly): Finally, the fully developed butterfly emerges from the chrysalis. It will then spend its time feeding on flower nectar, reproducing, and continuing the life cycle by laying eggs on host plants.
