Fluttering Bye
2011 Butterfly Release
by Michael Olson
May 16, 2011
The annual Butterfly Release and Insect Curriculum for the third grade class was a success this year. The class was able to raise about 60 specimens of Vanessa cardui, commonly known as Painted Lady butterflies.
Students were able to have their own specimen this year and watch it in individual containers. The students were able to watch the caterpillars (called larvae) in the second stage of this insect’s complete life cycle grow; then morph into the third stage of development called chrysalis (called pupae); and finally emerge into the fourth stage (called imago).
The Butterfly Release was held on a warm day several weeks ago. Students were able to hold a live specimen in their hands, albeit somewhat briefly before the butterfly took flight to parts unknown. Children are fascinated with living creatures, especially ones that are wild and seen so briefly while flying by them.
A butterfly coloring contest was held. There were four winners: pictures are 1st place – Emily Knote, 2nd place – Keelyn Connell from Ms. Duncan’s class and 1st place – Gregory Randolph and 2nd place – Alex Plog from Mrs. Huddle’s class. The prizes were butterfly nets, which will hopefully will increase interest in collecting butterflies, moths, and other insects.
