Droping cats

[Orangeaid]

I had accidentally droped a couple of catapillars this summer and was wondering if this could be the reason for possible deformities during emergence or causing death while in the chrysalis . Wanted to get some feed back on this if anyone else feels that this might cause death to monarchs while handling the catapillars clumsily or are they tough enough to handle an accidental fall from 2 or 3 feet. Thanks in advance

[2BFree]

Hmm, that's a question I have often wondered about. I have dropped one from time to time, but overall I don't think it hurts them. That's not to say I haven't caused damage on occasion, but mostly I think no. Do you use an artist's paint brush to move yours around? I use a "never used to paint" #3 camel hair. Works great.

[Megathymus ursus]

Should not be a problem unless the caterpillars obviously splat or they are in the J'd stage. Brian

[Orangeaid]

Thanks for the info. I feel better now and i also like the idea of the paint brush to handle them with it sounds much easier and i will try it next year.

[Megathymus ursus]

You should be able to pick fourth and fifth instars without a paintbrush. For very tiny caterpillars, a toothpick also works in a pinch (if you don't apply ANY pressure).