What’s Inside a Caterpillar Kit? Your First Step into the World of Painted Lady Butterflies
- blackborgs
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 23
There’s something truly magical about watching a butterfly emerge—and at Blackborg, we believe everyone should experience that wonder at least once. That’s why our Caterpillar Kits, designed around the stunning Painted Lady butterfly, are the heart of what we do.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, homeschooler, or nature enthusiast, this kit is your gateway to metamorphosis.
Why the Painted Lady Butterfly?
The Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) is one of the most well-loved and widely distributed butterflies in the world. Known for its vibrant orange, black, and white wings and gentle nature, it’s perfect for first-time butterfly raisers—especially young kids.
Here’s why we chose the Painted Lady for our kits:
Short lifecycle: From caterpillar to butterfly in just 2–3 weeks
Hardy and adaptable: They thrive in many climates and handle the journey to your home or classroom well
Friendly and peaceful: Painted Ladies are docile and easy to observe
Excellent for education: Their lifecycle stages are vivid and easy to identify
What Comes in a Blackborg Caterpillar Kit?
Each kit is packed with intention and care. Here’s what’s inside:
Live Painted Lady caterpillars in a biodegradable vented cup
Nutrient-rich food to support the caterpillar through its entire larval stage
A butterfly journal for kids to record each stage of the lifecycle
A wildflower seed packet (for pollinator support after release)
An instruction card that doubles as a QR code to our video care guide
A flyer for parents and teachers with facts, care tips, and fun activity ideas
Eco-friendly packaging that aligns with our sustainability mission
And yes, the cup the caterpillar arrives in becomes a planter! After release, fill it with soil, plant the included wildflower seeds, and help create a long-term habitat for future butterflies and bees.
The Educational Experience
We believe this process is about more than just raising butterflies—it’s about learning, slowing down, and appreciating nature.
Our kits support:
Science standards for TK–2nd grade
STEM learning and observation skills
Environmental awareness and stewardship
Creative thinking and journaling
Whether you're doing this as a family or in a classroom, it’s a hands-on experience that combines science, curiosity, and joy.
Watch, Wonder, and Release
When the transformation is complete, you’ll witness your butterfly emerge—shaking out its wings, gaining strength, and preparing to fly. That’s the moment that stays with people.
Our Painted Ladies can be released into the wild (once temperatures are above 60°F), or observed for a short time before letting them go. Every release is a small act of love for the pollinator population.
Start Your Butterfly Journey
Our Caterpillar Kits are available for individual homes, school programs, and even group orders for co-ops and parties. The process is simple, memorable, and full of meaning.
In our next blog post, we’ll explore how our Monarch Butterfly Release Packages help people celebrate life’s most meaningful moments—with wings.
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