The Monarch's Metamorphosis: Adult

When the chrysalis splits open, the butterfly emerges with its wings crumpled and its body bloated. Because it's all crumpled and damp, the monarch immediately begins pumping blood from its body into its wings to get the wrinkles out.

In about half an hour, the butterfly's wings and body have assumed its final, slim shape. But before it can fly, the butterfly uses the sun to dry out for a couple of hours. During this process it will remain inactive, its wings hanging downward and slightly separated. When it's ready, the butterfly will search for food and a mate, and the cycle begins anew.

Back to the monarch's life cycle.

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