What is the caterpillar stage of a butterfly?

The caterpillar stage is one of the most important stages in the butterfly’s life cycle. This stage is also known as the feeding stage. Caterpillars, consume plant leaves and spend practically all their time in searching for, and eating food. Although most caterpillars are herbivorous, a few species are carnivorous, like the Spalgis epius butterfly which eats scale insects.

During this stage, caterpillars are very active, so they need food and oxygen to grow and remain alive. Caterpillars mature through a series of developmental stages known as instars. They do not have lungs like mammals. Hence, they breathe in air through tiny holes called spiracles, on the sides of their bodies. They get a sense of direction due to the sense organ in their head.