Metamorphosis

Near the cottage Mom noticed a crown flower bush which she said attracts monarch butterflies. Upon closer inspection sure enough there were a handful of those classic black/white/green caterpillars AND a chrysalis! Way cool! There was one caterpillar getting into metamorphosis position, so we made a mental note to check up on him the next day.

We walked back up to the bush and looked for our friend. We couldn't believe it! In 24 hours (or less) our dangling caterpillar had turned into a shiny green chrysalis! Whoa! How do they do that?

MEANWHILE, on a lower leaf I noticed some action taking place: a wasp had attacked a caterpillar and was devouring it before our eyes! The poor dude had its green guts spilled all over the place. Mr. Waspy chewed off his head (I think) and flew away, leaving the gruesome green remains for a CHAMELEON to witness! This all happened within 60 seconds, I'm not kidding you. I think I should be working for Discovery Channel or something, eh?