Inside the tray #2
#2 of 5
Inside the tray, monarch caterpillars eat milkweed plant tops and leaves. The plant tops and leaves are placed in condiment cups that have holes punched in the lids so that the food stays fresh. I also use filtered water in the cups. Not that it lasts very long they caterpillars are hungry and get fresh food as needed throughout the day.
Although, the amount of caterpillars per tray can vary, I prefer to keep a limit of six per tray when the caterpillars are larger. The trays are cleaned as needed. They are certainly a mess first thing in the morning.
The trays can hold three cups comfortably but normally I only have two cups in a tray, that's usually enough to hold plenty of food for six cats.
The holes in the cups are punched from the top so if there are any sharp parts the cats don't have to deal with that.
Note: This method works very well for monarchs and queens but not so much for other types of caterpillars. Others simply don't have the amazing grip or webbing that monarchs and queens have. Although, some have successfully pupated on the tops of the tray lids, most are not able to do so. Therefore, I have other tricks for other types when raised in trays.
The cups are bleached, rinsed and dry completely after a the occupants have finished their journey before they are used again.
Have a wonderful day and happy snapping.
Inside the tray #2
#2 of 5
Inside the tray, monarch caterpillars eat milkweed plant tops and leaves. The plant tops and leaves are placed in condiment cups that have holes punched in the lids so that the food stays fresh. I also use filtered water in the cups. Not that it lasts very long they caterpillars are hungry and get fresh food as needed throughout the day.
Although, the amount of caterpillars per tray can vary, I prefer to keep a limit of six per tray when the caterpillars are larger. The trays are cleaned as needed. They are certainly a mess first thing in the morning.
The trays can hold three cups comfortably but normally I only have two cups in a tray, that's usually enough to hold plenty of food for six cats.
The holes in the cups are punched from the top so if there are any sharp parts the cats don't have to deal with that.
Note: This method works very well for monarchs and queens but not so much for other types of caterpillars. Others simply don't have the amazing grip or webbing that monarchs and queens have. Although, some have successfully pupated on the tops of the tray lids, most are not able to do so. Therefore, I have other tricks for other types when raised in trays.
The cups are bleached, rinsed and dry completely after a the occupants have finished their journey before they are used again.
Have a wonderful day and happy snapping.