Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am working on doing my sciece fair project on does the tempature effect the life cycle of a painted lady butter fly. I live in Texas and was wondering if the eggs would hach in this tepersture around Febuary.

Hi,

I do not know for sure, but I think in the southern US you can find painted ladies all year--so yes, I would expect that you could get eggs to hatch in February. Are you thinking of leaving them outside, or bringing them into your home?

Hi Maddy,

Butterflies and other insects are usually active when temperatures are 65 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. You should first do research to see if the temperature in your local areas are high enough in February for this project. You will need both active butterflies and suitable host plants for the caterpillars. Do you know where are you going to get the butterfly eggs for your project?


Donna Hardy