vi INTRODUCTION, 
The transformations are of closely analogous character in both sections of our order Lepidoplert, The 
female Butterfly, like the female Moth, deposits a certain number of eggs, from which, in due time, emerge small 
worm-like creatures, commonly called Caterpillars. These generally cast their skins several times before they 
attain their full growth, at which period they sink into a dormant state, in the commencement of which a husk 
or shell is formed about them, and they become what is termed a chrysalis. The chrysalides of Butterflies are 
generally somewhat angular in form, while those of Moths are almost invariably smooth in character. The 
Caterpillars of Butterflies frequently undergo their change to the chrysalis state suspended to a leaf or branch, 
while those of Moths, in most cases, either form a cocoon, or retire into the ground, often to a considerable 
depth, when the time arrives for their metamorphosis. 
During the chrysalis state (both in Moths and Butterflies) the final or perfect form of the insect is 
gradually developing itself; the rudimeutal wings, and even the attenne, neither of which were externally 
developed in the Caterpillar, being from the first distinctly traceable in the forms assumed by the shell of the 
chrysalis. When the development of the newly winged insect has attained a certain degree of completeness, the 
shell of the chrysalis is rent by an instinctive effort, and the inseet emerges. All the parts now appear perfect 
and full-grown, except the wings, which are at first quite soft, and not above a quarter their size, but they harden 
and inerease in dimension with astonishing rapidity when exposed to the air, and when they have attained their 
full development the final transformation is completed. 
