The family cat was the first to discover the Painted Lady butterfly that was flitting around in our Insect Lore Butterfly Pavilion. Within the next two days, we had six butterflies in our netted cages and I had two daughters fighting over whose butterflies were whose.

The Insect Lore Butterfly Pavilion allows youngsters (and just as interested parents) to observe a chrysalis turn into a butterfly. However, the process first starts with caterpillars that are ordered using a supplied coupon once the Butterfly Pavilion arrives (typically a $5 shipping charge applies).

Over the next 7 to 10 days, each of those caterpillars turns into a chrysalis. From there, there’s approximately 10 more waiting days until they turn into butterflies. The netted cages provide a temporary home for the butterflies but they do need to be released outside – and what a wonder when they flutter away!

The Insect Lore Butterfly Pavilions include specific instructions on butterfly steps and care as well as information about the life span of these butterflies. The 24-inch netted pavilion holds 6 to 10 butterflies while the 12-inch holds three to five. Both are purchasable through HearthSong for $29.98 and $19.98. Of course, the pavilions can be reused – you just have to order more caterpillars if you want to have more butterflies.