The life cycle of a butterfly is a multi-stage process known as complete metamorphosis, during which the insect completely alters its physical form across four distinct stages.

The Egg (Embryonic Stage):
Placement: Laid by an adult female on a specific host plant leaf.
Diet: The host plant will serve as food when the egg hatches.
Duration: Typically hatches within 3 to 21 days depending on the climate.
Appearance: Extremely tiny, varying from round, oval, to cylindrical shapes.

The Larva (Caterpillar):
Function: This is the primary growth and eating stage of the lifecycle.
First Meal: The caterpillar usually consumes its own nutrient-rich eggshell first.
Growth: Grows exponentially, forcing it to split and shed its skin (molting) 4 to 5 times.
Duration: Lasts several weeks until the caterpillar reaches its maximum size.

The Pupa (Chrysalis):
Anchor: The full-grown caterpillar hangs upside down from a twig using a silk pad.
Structure: Its final molt hardens into a protective shell called a chrysalis.
Transformation: Inside, the body liquefies and completely reorganizes into a winged insect.
Duration: Generally lasts 1 to 2 weeks, though some species overwinter for months.

The Adult (Butterfly):
Emergence: The butterfly breaks out of the chrysalis with soft, wet, wrinkled wings.
Preparation: It rests for several hours to pump fluid into its wings so they can dry and harden.
Function: Focuses entirely on flying, drinking nectar, finding a mate, and reproducing.
Lifespan: Varies significantly by species, lasting anywhere from one week to an entire year.