When they turn black, it's just a matter of days before they hatch. I marveled when looking closely, to be able to see the wings inside the black chrysalis, and marveled, equally, at the tiny gilded, gem-like markings that shine in the light on the still-green one. Nature sure is amazing, isn't it??
The first butterfly hatched during the school day last week, surprising everyone! After waiting and wondering what exactly was inside, the kids were beyond excited when the butterfly first emerged from the black cocoon--now empty, and translucent. It looks like blood on the towel--but it's not. It's color from it's wings.
After a few hours we brought the butterfly outside. Knowing they can tolerate gentle handling (some scientists actually write a number on their wings with a Sharpie, one website mentioned--not that we actually would!) We allowed the children to experience what it would be like to have a butterfly light upon our fingers! With the guiding hands of a teacher, the butterfly was passed from finger to finger.
This right here----this is the reason I do what I do. This child's expression reflects how I was feeling at that moment--and every moment one more child 'gets it'. When one more child smiles. When one more child appreciates. When one more child learns. When one more child can 'speak' with nature.
To present new experiences which allow the pure joy of discovery--the ability to be fascinated by the most simple--yet complex things in our environment. To be thrilled and wonder-filled! To laugh and to share an upclose and personal connection with such a delicate being! For me, to be the facillitator in these kinds of experiences, is what my life's all about.
It was time to release the butterfly to the wild. It was placed on a branch where it remained for some time.
Hanging it's wings down low... stretching them.... drying them...
Although several minutes had passed, the butterfly was still under the watchful eye of one child who remained steadfast by the tree. Two others then joined him by the fence and he pointed out the branch that the butterfly clung, and they watched a while longer.
And then it was gone!
Meanwhile, back in the classroom, the second chrysalis was beginning to turn dark. We knew in a matter of days, it will be completely black and ready for the next butterfly to emerge! Only..... it would be over the weekend! On Friday afternoon I took home the container holding the cocoons, to keep watch over it. I promised the children I'd photograph the process so they wouldn't have to miss it. Sure enough, Saturday morning, with soaking-wet wings, the second butterfly emerged!
Stay tuned to the next post for an entirely different experience.
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