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I'm just wonder if i can open my cercropia moth cacoon to see what the pupa is like, i waited 3 weeks as a sheet said for it to turn into a pupa and will it still turn into a moth just fine if i open it?

Joe
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Hi Joe,

It is best not to, but I understand the curiosity - is this the reason? I will first say that the cocoon serves several purposes: protection from animals and the elements and camouflage. If you do, you will have to keep a few things in mind:

1 - Do not disturb it under any circumstances for the first few weeks after spinning. Cecropia spin an outer and inner cocoon, so once the outer one is finished it is in there spinning another and then will pupate. If you disorient it, could die within or be deformed.

2- As for cutting - you need to know where the pupa is inside so you don't accidentally cut it! Moth pupa lie on their back and will be resting at the bottom (another reason to keep oriented in original position). Due to the double cocoons, they are not right on the bottom but sort of "float" more towards the middle.

3- The NICE thing about cecropia is that unlike polyphemus and luna it is easy to find access. Both this species and promethea create a "valve" at one end that they emerge through. You can easily see it where the shape is more pointed on one end. They spin the silk all in one direction here.

4- Use SHARP, SMALL scissors. Silk is extremely strong and you really do need a sharp pair. Small sewing scissors are best. Carefully cut from the valve end but stay along the top. After each cut pull it apart with your fingers so you can see the pupa. Since it has the double cocoon this will be a slow and careful process. You will likely cut the out first and then the inner. Just take your time.

5- Besides the reasons I gave above for the cocoon, it also helps to retain moisture, so it is best to put the pupa back in the cocoon (just like it was –head at valve end on its back) and you can just out a small piece of tape to keep it closed – just don’t tape up that valve!

6- Whether you do this or not be sure to winter this over properly by exposing it to natural day length and temps or in your fridge – the crisper is best.

Btw, if you are interested you can sex the moth by the pupa. If you are interested let me know and I will scan in a pic or find other resource for you. Oh! It may move a little so don't be startled and drop it! Also, I would suggest handling it as little as possible but when you do of course, be gentle

lele