10 LIVE Pipevine Swallowtail Caterpillars

Raise Your Own Stunning Pipevine Swallowtails — 10 Live Caterpillars

Imagine watching a tiny, spiky caterpillar transform before your eyes into one of North America's most breathtaking butterflies. With 10 live Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars (Battus philenor), your family or classroom gets a front-row seat to one of nature's most remarkable journeys — from crawling larva to iridescent, jewel-winged butterfly.

Why Pipevine Swallowtail Caterpillars?

• Striking appearance — dark bodies adorned with vivid orange-red tubercles (spiky bumps) that make them unlike any other caterpillar
• Fascinating defense strategy — they sequester toxins from their host plant, making them unpalatable to predators
• Grow quickly and are hardy and easy to raise, making them ideal for first-time butterfly raisers
• Native to North America and important pollinators as adults

What's Included

• 10 live, healthy Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars
• Detailed care and feeding instructions
• Guidance on host plant requirements (Pipevine / Aristolochia species)
• Tips for successfully raising caterpillars through to butterfly release

Caterpillar Care Tips

• Feed exclusively on Pipevine (Aristolochia) leaves — this is their only host plant
• Keep in a well-ventilated enclosure at room temperature (65–80°F)
• Provide fresh leaves daily and remove frass (droppings) regularly to keep the habitat clean
• Handle minimally — observe and enjoy from a respectful distance
• Expect chrysalis formation within 2–3 weeks, followed by butterfly emergence 1–2 weeks later

Whether you're homeschooling, teaching a science unit, or simply nurturing a love of nature, these caterpillars deliver an unforgettable, hands-on experience. Order today — your butterflies are waiting to emerge!

Live arrival guaranteed when shipped via our recommended expedited shipping. Please open your package immediately upon arrival and begin feeding right away.