Emergence Cage
Many butterflies and moths overwinter as pupae (cocoons and chrysalises). Pupae which are kept inside a classroom have a tendency to dry out and the adult never emerges. Build this emergence cage to overwinter your pupae outside. Hang it in a protected area, such as under the eaves or other shelter.
Materials:
A. 2 yards of fine mesh fabric (48 inches wide)
B. 1 yard of string
C. 2 rubber bands
D. 2 twelve inch diameter embroidery hoops
E. 1 permanent marker
F. ruler
G. newspaper or other material to cover work area
1. Cover work area with newspaper.
2. Use the permanent marker to make a line twelve inches from, and parallel to, the bottom of the fabric (see figure 1). Repeat at other end.
3. Gather the material in one hand about two inches from the top edge. Wrap the last six inches of the material around the gathers (see figure 2). Secure the material with a rubber band about two inches from the top.
4. Take the inside right of one hoop and place it inside the material so that the gathered end is in the center of the ring and the rest of the material is draped over the ring. There should be an overlap in the material. Place the outer ring over the outside of the material and join the rings. Tighten slightly.
5. Gently (it will rip if you pull too hard!) pull the material so that the line you drew is between the rings. When it is all lined up, tighten the outer ring.
6. Move the rubber band down the material so that the material is taught inside the ring.
7. Repeat steps 3 - 6 at the other end. Be certain that the material overlaps in the same direction at both ends. The overlap will be your door.
8. Tie the string to the rubber band at one end. Use clothes pins or small clamps to keep the door closed.
© copyright 1999 by Chris Aker